The American Statistical Association (ASA) advocates for fair and objective collection and reporting of data throughout the federal government. This week's two political (versus career) appointments to the US Census Bureau are in direct conflict with the bureau's mission to ensure proper, accurate, and timely delivery of statistical information to the public. In his statement, Census Bureau Director Steven Dillingham provided no justification for the new positions, description of duties, or qualifications of the appointees. The ASA Board of Directors is deeply troubled by this development.The US Census Bureau produces statistics that are fundamental to our democracy, government, economy, and everyday life. The committed professional staff of the Census Bureau strives to ensure the bureau's products are accurate, reliable, and timely. The Census Bureau relies on the trust of its survey and census respondents, trust earned through objectivity, protection of personal information, transparency, and production of high-quality impartial data.
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