Departure Details
Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer resigned from her position in the Trump administration on Monday, according to White House communications director Steven Cheung. White House communications director Steven Cheung said Chavez-DeRemer is taking a position in the private sector. Deputy Secretary Keith Sonderling will serve as acting secretary of labor.
Misconduct Investigation
Chavez-DeRemer's departure follows scrutiny over alleged misconduct, including mishandling department funds and inappropriate relationships with staff. The Labor Department's inspector general launched an investigation earlier this year after allegations that Chavez-DeRemer misused taxpayer dollars for personal travel. Whistleblowers accused her of having staff fabricate official visits to places she wanted to go with family and friends, paid for with government funds. The complaint also alleges a "stash" of alcohol in her office and frequent drinking during work hours.
Staff Turmoil
At least four members of Chavez-DeRemer's staff were fired or placed on leave between January and March, according to reporting from multiple outlets. Her chief of staff and deputy chief of staff left in early March after being told to resign or be fired. The director of advance claimed wrongful termination at the end of March.
Allegations Against Husband
Chavez-DeRemer's husband, Shawn DeRemer, has also been a point of controversy, having been banned from the Department of Labor headquarters. At least two female staffers reported he had touched them inappropriately, according to the New York Times, which cited people familiar with the matter and a police report. At least one incident was captured on video.
Administration Response
Steven Cheung wrote on social media that Chavez-DeRemer "has done a phenomenal job in her role by protecting American workers, enacting fair labor practices, and helping Americans gain additional skills to improve their lives." The Trump administration called the allegations "baseless," according to Axios.
Predecessors' Exits
Chavez-DeRemer is the third Cabinet secretary to leave in Trump's second term. Attorney General Pam Bondi was fired earlier this month, and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem was replaced in March.
Sonderling's Background
Keith Sonderling previously served at the Labor Department during Trump's first administration and at the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. He was nominated by Trump during his first term to fill a Republican seat.
The sources also report that Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem was fired after criticism over a $220 million ad campaign featuring her on horseback.