Former Oregon Representative Lori Chavez-DeRemer faced Senate scrutiny during her confirmation hearing for Labor Secretary on Wednesday. Nominated by President Trump, Chavez-DeRemer addressed concerns regarding her previous support for the PRO Act, particularly its potential impact on Right-to-Work laws.
Responding to pointed questions from Senators Rand Paul and Tommy Tuberville, Chavez-DeRemer clarified her current stance. She affirmed that she no longer supports overturning state Right-to-Work laws, emphasizing her respect for states that choose to maintain those laws. She explained her previous support for the PRO Act as a representative for Oregon’s 5th district stemmed from a desire to engage in crucial conversations regarding labor issues relevant to her constituents. Now, as a potential Labor Secretary, her focus has shifted to representing the President’s agenda.
Senator Bernie Sanders initiated the hearing by questioning Chavez-DeRemer's commitment to pro-union values, challenging her to choose between supporting working families and aligning with the perceived anti-union stance of figures like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos. Chavez-DeRemer was accompanied by family members, including her husband, parents, and daughter.
In her opening statement, Chavez-DeRemer expressed gratitude to President Trump, attributing to him the creation of a renewed coalition of working-class Americans. She underscored her commitment to investing in trade schools and expanding educational opportunities beyond traditional four-year degrees. She also pledged to create a fairer environment for American businesses, workers, and unions.
Chavez-DeRemer's nomination came less than three weeks after Trump’s re-election. President Trump expressed confidence in her ability to collaborate with both businesses and labor organizations to strengthen the American workforce and improve working conditions.
