U.S. employers added just 177,000 jobs in August, fewer than expected, according to the latest ADP National Employment report.

The Details: Economists surveyed by Dow Jones had expected 200,000 jobs added, much fewer than July’s 371,000 estimate, according to CNBC (Center bias). ADP’s report specifically noted a decline in job creation by hotels and restaurants, which “fell to 30,000 in August after months of strong hiring.”

For Context: The news may be good for the Federal Reserve, which has cited strong job growth as evidence that the economy needs more interest rate hikes to slow inflation. Year-over-year consumer inflation was 3.2% in July, just 1.2 points higher than the Fed’s 2% target; August inflation numbers are scheduled for release on September 13. 

How the Media Covered It: Coverage was mostly found in business outlets and was mostly similar regardless of bias rating. However, Fox Business (Lean Right bias) framed the issue more negatively than other sources.