The Department of Labor’s Office of the Inspector General (OIG) released a damning report on former Labor Secretary Lori Chavez‑DeRemer, alleging she maintained an inappropriate relationship with a member of her protective detail and cultivated a hostile work environment for her staff.
Allegations of Misconduct
The OIG investigation, prompted by an anonymous complaint in January, details several incidents that suggest a pattern of unprofessional behavior. Witnesses described the workplace as “toxic, intimidating and humiliating,” noting that Chavez‑DeRemer, her chief of staff Jihun Han, and deputy chief of staff Rebecca Wright regularly consumed alcohol on Department of Labor property and during work hours.
One particularly egregious claim involves Chavez‑DeRemer allegedly ordering a security agent to throw cash at a partially nude dancer during an off‑record stop in Oregon. According to the report, after the driver refused, the agent was instructed by the security official to comply, and Chavez‑DeRemer herself handed cash to the dancer.
Improper Relationship with Security Agent
The report states that Chavez‑DeRemer’s relationship with the assistant special agent‑in‑charge (ASAIC) of the Division of Protective Operations began shortly after her arrival at the department in March 2025. The two communicated frequently via the encrypted messaging app Signal during off‑duty hours, discussing non‑operational subjects.
Witnesses observed the pair engaging in behavior that suggested a personal bond, such as massaging the agent’s shoulders in a car and walking arm‑in‑arm after an event at Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins’ home. Surveillance of Chavez‑DeRemer’s Washington, D.C., residence reportedly captured the ASAIC entering her home through a back door on multiple occasions.
Impact on Department Operations
The OIG found that the ASAIC’s focus on his relationship with Chavez‑DeRemer reduced his protective coverage for the secretary, as he monitored her interactions and limited the presence of other protective personnel to create opportunities for private meetings.
When concerns were raised about the ASAIC breaking chain‑of‑command protocol by attending meetings with Chavez‑DeRemer’s senior staff, the special agent in charge recommended the ASAIC take a leave of absence. The ASAIC declined, replying “lol. Don’t do that” to a text from the SAIC. He was placed on paid administrative leave in January, unpaid investigative leave in February, and ultimately resigned in March.
Response and Next Steps
Fox News Digital reached out to the Department of Labor, the OIG, and the White House for comment. No response was received at the time of publication.
The findings raise serious questions about leadership standards within the Trump administration’s Labor Department and underscore the importance of accountability and a respectful workplace for federal employees.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
