US Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer Resigns Amid Misconduct Allegations

Lori Chavez-DeRemer has resigned from her position as US Labor Secretary following serious allegations of misconduct, including claims of an inappropriate relationship with a subordinate. Her departure comes after an internal investigation and multiple complaints regarding her conduct. Keith Sonderling has been appointed as the acting secretary. This situation raises questions about workplace ethics and accountability within the administration. Read on to learn more about the circumstances surrounding her resignation and the implications for the Labor Department.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 21, 2026, 03:26 IST

Resignation Announcement

The White House has confirmed the resignation of US Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, who is stepping down after facing serious allegations of misconduct. According to Steven Cheung, she will transition to a new role in the private sector. Cheung praised her contributions, stating, "Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer will be leaving the Administration to take a position in the private sector. She has done a phenomenal job in her role by protecting American workers, enacting fair labor practices, and helping Americans gain additional skills to improve their lives," he shared on social media. Keith Sonderling has been appointed as the acting secretary, Cheung noted.

Misconduct Allegations

Allegations Against DeRemer

Chavez-DeRemer's resignation comes in the wake of an internal investigation into alleged misconduct. Reports from January indicated that she was under scrutiny following a complaint that suggested she had an "inappropriate relationship with a subordinate" and misused her authority. Her attorney stated that she could not comment further, except to deny the allegations. According to sources from the New York Post and Politico, four individuals were placed on administrative leave during the investigation, with three resigning, including a member of her security team who was reportedly involved in the alleged relationship.

Additionally, Melissa Robey, who was the director of advance for the labor secretary, was terminated shortly after providing a four-hour sworn testimony to the department's inspector general. Robey maintained her innocence, stating, "I did nothing wrong and have nothing to hide." Furthermore, Chavez-DeRemer's husband, Shawn DeRemer, was reportedly barred from the department's headquarters following accusations of sexual assault made by two women. A police report filed on January 24 detailed a complaint of "sexual contact against her will" at the Labor Department in December, although the investigation was later closed due to insufficient evidence. Despite this, he remained barred from the building, although his attorney claimed he was unaware of any such restriction.

Reports also indicated that at least three formal complaints had been lodged against Chavez-DeRemer, alleging she fostered a toxic work environment and retaliated against women who reported her husband. One complaint claimed she instructed staff to perform personal tasks, such as organizing her wardrobe.

Profile of Keith Sonderling

Who is Keith Sonderling?

Keith Sonderling was confirmed by the US Senate as Deputy Secretary of Labor on March 12, 2025. In this capacity, he acts as the chief operating officer of the department, overseeing its budget and workforce while managing essential functions like strategic planning, financial management, information technology, and human resources. Prior to his current role, he served as a commissioner at the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission from September 2020 to August 2024, and held the position of vice-chair from 2020 to 2021.