Department of Labor Names Faith Center Director to Lead Contract Compliance Office

The Department of Labor announced earlier this month that Kenneth Wolfe, director of its faith center, will also lead the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs. The office enforces anti-discrimination requirements for federal contractors that cover roughly 20 to 25 percent of the American workforce.

Wolfe previously worked as a speechwriter for a Republican congressman until 2003 and later held a communications role at the Department of Health and Human Services. He has no listed legal experience, according to his LinkedIn profile.

Background on the Office The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs has historically used labor economists and lawyers to review workforce data and pursue settlements or policy changes when discrimination is found. A former agency attorney who served 16 years at the department said the office could address discrimination affecting entire classes of workers.

The Department of Labor's proposed 2027 budget would eliminate the office and move its remaining statutory duties to a new Office of Civil Rights. The proposal cites a 2025 executive order on diversity, equity, and inclusion as the reason for the change.

Wolfe organized monthly worship services at the Department of Labor before taking the new position. Some employees said the services, held during work hours, made them uncomfortable. The agency has also announced a partnership with the Department of Justice to address anti-Christian bias and released a tool summarizing state religious discrimination laws.

The Department of Labor did not respond to questions about Wolfe's qualifications or his potential role in the office's wind-down.