The U.S. economy is facing significant challenges, as hundreds of thousands of full-time jobs were lost in August, replaced by lower-paying part-time positions. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that 438,000 full-time jobs disappeared last month, while part-time jobs increased by 527,000, raising concerns about the quality of employment available to American workers.

Critics argue that the Biden-Harris administration’s policies are contributing to the decline in full-time work, which often comes with better pay and benefits. President Donald Trump criticized the administration, claiming that it has turned the U.S. labor market into a “temp agency.” He pointed out that part-time jobs, which offer fewer benefits, are now becoming the norm for many Americans.

According to E.J. Antoni, a research fellow at the Heritage Foundation’s Grover M. Hermann Center for the Federal Budget, this shift toward part-time employment is a troubling sign. “Employers are cutting full-time positions because of weak demand and economic uncertainty,” Antoni said. He warned that this trend is a sign that the U.S. economy is heading into a recession.

Year-over-year, the U.S. lost 1.02 million full-time jobs while adding 1.06 million part-time jobs, according to the BLS. This shift is alarming to many, as part-time employees generally earn less, receive fewer benefits, and lack the stability that comes with full-time employment.

Despite the concerning numbers, the Biden administration released a statement touting their job creation efforts. They emphasized that nearly 16 million new jobs have been created since they took office, crediting their economic policies for rescuing the economy. However, many critics argue that the type of jobs being created does not offer the same security and benefits that American workers need.