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Departure announced amid internal probe
The White House confirmed on Monday that US Labour Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer will leave the Trump administration to join the private sector. Her exit follows months of mounting complaints and an internal investigation into potential misconduct.
White House praises tenure despite controversy
White House communications director Steven Cheung commended Chavez-DeRemer's work, stating she had done a "phenomenal job" protecting workers, implementing fair labour practices, and helping Americans develop new skills. Deputy Labour Secretary Keith Sonderling will serve as acting secretary.
Chavez-DeRemer reflects on achievements
In a post on X, Chavez-DeRemer expressed pride in her contributions, including efforts to prepare workers for the AI era, reduce drug costs, and strengthen retirement security. She thanked President Trump, vowing to continue advocating for American workers despite her departure.
"I am proud that we made significant progress in advancing President Trump's mission to bridge the gap between business and labor and always put the American worker first."
Lori Chavez-DeRemer, former US Labour Secretary
Allegations of workplace misconduct
The Labour Department's inspector general launched an investigation in January after reports surfaced accusing Chavez-DeRemer of workplace misconduct, including drinking alcohol during work hours and misusing official travel for personal trips, according to The New York Post. She has denied all wrongdoing.
The inspector general's office declined to comment on the investigation when contacted by CBS News, the BBC's US partner.
Personal controversy adds to scrutiny
Chavez-DeRemer's husband, Shawn DeRemer, an anesthesiologist and co-founder of medical clinics, was barred from Labour Department headquarters earlier this year after two female employees accused him of inappropriate touching. One woman filed a police report in December, but federal prosecutors declined to press charges, citing insufficient evidence. Shawn DeRemer's lawyers have denied the allegations.
Recent shake-up in Trump administration
Chavez-DeRemer's departure follows a series of high-profile exits from the Trump administration, including Attorney General Pam Bondi in April and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem in March. Both were removed from their positions amid shifting priorities.
Background and career
Before her cabinet role, Chavez-DeRemer served one term as a US House representative from Oregon and was mayor of Happy Valley for eight years.
