Civilian Labor Force

All the people just trying to make a buck working, not including federal government employees. And not including retired people, because they’re no longer trying to make a buck by working.

So, who are these people? Everyone who has a job in the private sector and in state and local governments.

What about the unemployed? They’re counted too, if they’re on the hunt for a job. If they’ve given up or just don't need the money (think: jet-setting socialites who live off of trust funds), then they’re not considered in this group.