America’s data system is losing staff, funding, and trust
America’s data system is losing staff, funding, and trust  
Podcast: The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton
Published On: Wed Jan 07 2026
Description: A new report warns that America’s federal statistical system is “at risk,” citing steep staffing losses, shrinking budgets, and eroding public trust. The analysis outlines nine steps to stabilize the system and modernize data delivery. Nancy Potok, former chief statistician of the United States, explains why the fix may require an entirely new organizing strategy backed by law.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.