In short, the employment gains haven’t been broad-based. Instead, the overall numbers are reflective of a “rolling recession,” where sectors experience downturns and recoveries at different times.

“This is an unusual state of affairs where the aggregate numbers look pretty strong, but they’re really being boosted by the unusually strong government and health care numbers, which are masking the unusual weakness elsewhere,” Pollak said.

“I think it’s the major reason why the aggregate figures look so strong and yet people feel so bad,” she added. “Most people in this country are not working in health care or a police department and can’t easily switch into those kinds of jobs. … These averages can look quite rosy but mask the very real challenges and struggles of business owners and job seekers.”

Thought that was interesting. Hadn’t heard that concept mentioned ever before. Seems super important to the conversation. It’s like talking about polls without making a distinction for popular vote vs swing state votes.