President Donald Trump announced the nomination of Keith Sonderling as the secretary of labor, elevating him from his current role as acting director. This move comes two months after the resignation of Lori Chavez-DeRemer, who stepped down amid allegations of abuse of power.

Background and Nomination

Sonderling, a lawyer with experience in various acting positions and leadership roles within the Trump administration, previously served as the deputy labor secretary and was a Republican member of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Trump expressed his confidence in Sonderling’s ability to deliver strong results, stating that he will do an incredible job in his new role.

Sonderling’s nomination is subject to Senate confirmation. During his tenure in the Trump administration, Sonderling has also held positions such as acting director of the U.S. Office of Government Ethics and the Institute of Museum and Library Services, an agency that Trump had targeted for closure in an executive order last year.

Previous Controversies

At the library agency, Sonderling’s actions included placing many staff members on administrative leave, sending termination notices, canceling grants and contracts, and firing all members of the National Museum and Library Services Board. These actions were later blocked by a judge, and the case remains on appeal.

Lori Chavez-DeRemer’s resignation in April followed reports of investigations into her conduct, including allegations of sending personal messages to young staff members, drinking alcohol on the job, and using aides for personal trip planning. Chavez-DeRemer has denied any wrongdoing.

Original reporting: KTSA News/Talk (San Antonio) — read the source article.