Lori Chavez-DeRemer Confirmed as Labor Secretary in Bipartisan Vote

On Monday, the U.S. Senate confirmed Lori Chavez-DeRemer as Labor Secretary in a bipartisan vote.

Key Details: Chavez-DeRemer, a one-time Republican Congresswoman from Oregon, becomes U.S. Secretary of Labor by a vote of 67-32. She enjoyed support from business leaders and labor unions but was opposed by three Republican senators for her previous stances against right-to-work laws.

Key Quotes: “The Biden administration used its authority as a weapon against workers, threatening their ability to earn a living and provide for their families. With President Trump back in office, we have an opportunity to enact a pro-America agenda at the Department of Labor that puts workers first,” said Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA). Chavez-DeRemer said, "My guiding principle will be President Trump's guiding principle — ensuring a level playing field for businesses, unions and, most importantly, the American worker."

For Context: The Labor Department has about 16,000 full-time employees and perhaps a $13.9 billion budget for fiscal year 2025.

How the Media Covered It: CBS News (Lean Left bias) noted that Chavez-DeRemer has committed to implementing President Donald Trump's policy vision, though some of her earlier positions may have conflicted with this administration. The Washington Times (Lean Right) noted that Chavez-DeRemer assured Republicans that she would not interfere with a worker's right to decline membership in a union.