President Trump nominated Keith Sonderling for permanent Labor Secretary after the career official spent two months running the department following his predecessor’s scandal-driven resignation amid allegations of workplace misconduct and misuse of taxpayer resources.
Career Official Steps Into Permanent Role
Trump announced the nomination on Truth Social, praising Sonderling’s track record across multiple Labor Department positions. Sonderling has served as acting secretary since April, when former Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer departed under a cloud of whistleblower complaints. The nomination requires Senate confirmation before Sonderling can formally assume the Cabinet position he currently holds on an interim basis.
Sonderling brings extensive department experience, having served as Deputy Secretary and Chief Operating Officer before his acting role. During Trump’s first term, he worked as Acting and Deputy Administrator of the Labor Department’s Wage and Hour Division. Trump called him “outstanding” and expressed confidence in his ability to deliver results for American workers.
Manufacturing Jobs Surge Under Current Leadership
As acting secretary, Sonderling has championed the administration’s agenda to restore high-paying private sector manufacturing and construction jobs to American soil. He credited major investments from companies including Lockheed Martin and Toyota for driving job creation. The administration emphasizes upskilling American workers to fill these positions, positioning domestic workforce development as central to economic growth and competitiveness.
If confirmed, Sonderling would continue overseeing enforcement of federal labor laws, administering workforce programs, and implementing the administration’s broader employment policies. His tenure would mark continuity after months of leadership turbulence triggered by the previous secretary’s abrupt departure.
Scandal Forces Predecessor’s Exit
Chavez-DeRemer left office after whistleblower complaints accused her of conducting an affair with a security detail member, drinking alcohol during work hours, fostering a hostile work environment, and directing staff to perform personal tasks at taxpayer expense. Additional allegations claimed her husband made unwanted advances toward department officials and that family members routinely demanded personal services from young staffers.
Complaints detailed requests for staff to handle private errands including dry cleaning pickup, wine purchases, and closet cleaning, allegedly enforced through threats. Reports also described alcohol kept around the office. The Labor Department’s inspector general continues investigating these allegations. Chavez-DeRemer has denied all claims against her.