Trump Nominates Acting Labor Secretary Sonderling for Permanent Role

President Trump said Monday he will nominate Keith Sonderling to lead the Department of Labor on a permanent basis. The announcement came in a Truth Social post in which the president wrote that Sonderling has proven dedication to delivering strong results for the Hardworking People of our Country and that he knows Sonderling will do an incredible job in the new role.

Sonderling has served as acting secretary since April 20. He assumed the post after former Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer resigned.

Sonderling previously served as deputy secretary of labor. He was confirmed to that position last year in a 53-46 Senate vote along party lines. He also served as a member of the commission during the Biden administration. Last week Sonderling became acting director of the U.S. Office of Government Ethics, an independent agency that oversees conflicts of interest for executive branch officials.

Chavez-DeRemer had been under scrutiny before leaving the department. Several news outlets reported that her conduct was under investigation by the department's internal watchdog. Her husband was barred from department headquarters in Washington, D.C., after two employees reported inappropriate touching, according to sources familiar with the situation.

Federal prosecutors reviewed evidence and decided not to file charges. The permanent Labor secretary position requires Senate confirmation.