President Donald Trump’s nominee for labor secretary, Lori Chavez-DeRemer, faces a challenging confirmation process as she seeks support from both Republicans and Democrats in the Senate. Her pro-union stances, particularly her support for the Protecting the Right to Organize Act (PRO Act), have raised concerns among some members of her own party. The PRO Act, which aims to strengthen labor rights, is opposed by most Republicans and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce because it would override state laws prohibiting mandatory union dues.
The Senate Majority Leader has acknowledged that most Republicans have not tolerated support for the PRO Act in the past, but he hopes Chavez-DeRemer can clarify her position during the hearing process. Chavez-DeRemer’s confirmation hearing in front of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) is scheduled for Wednesday. Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., a member of the HELP committee, has already announced his opposition to her nomination due to her support for the PRO Act.
Chavez-DeRemer’s nomination faces challenges
If Paul follows through on his commitment, Chavez-DeRemer will have to rely on Democratic votes to advance favorably out of the HELP committee. However, Sen. Markwayne Mullin, R-Okla., fully supports Chavez-DeRemer’s nomination. Mullin and Teamsters President Sean O’Brien were involved in Trump’s selection of her for the key Cabinet role. Mullin emphasized the significance of union members in Trump’s election coalition and believes her nomination’s support among unions makes it a tough vote for Democrats to oppose.
While Paul suggested she might lose up to 15 Republican votes but gain 25 Democratic ones, Mullin believes the real number of Republican defectors is much smaller. As Chavez-DeRemer navigates the confirmation process, her ability to secure support from both Republicans and Democrats will be crucial in determining the outcome of her nomination for the position of labor secretary.