U.S. employment growth slowed sharply in October, but the unemployment rate held steady at 4.1 percent, providing confidence that the labor market remains on solid footing ahead of next Tuesday's election. The unemployment rate is not distorted because striking workers are counted as employed in household surveys, which are the basis for the unemployment rate. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics classification, workers who are unable to work due to severe weather will be reported as employed and "employed, but not working". Economists expect the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates by 25 basis points next Thursday, cutting through the noise. (Kim X)