'Affair To Drinking On Job': Trump's US Labour Secretary Steps Down Amid Misconduct Claims

Last Updated:April 21, 2026, 19:20 IST

Lori Chavez-DeRemer is the third high-profile female cabinet-level official to leave the Trump administration in under two months.

US Secretary of Labour Lori Chavez-DeRemer has stepped down from her post in the administration of President Donald Trump, the White House said on Monday, confirming weeks of speculation about her future.

White House communications director Steven Cheung said Chavez-DeRemer had “done a phenomenal job" during her tenure. In a post on social media platform X, Chavez-DeRemer said she would leave the administration but continue to “fight for American workers" in the private sector.

Her departure comes as the Trump administration continues to face turnover at the top levels, with the Labour Secretary becoming the latest senior official to exit amid mounting scrutiny.

Misconduct Claims

Chavez-DeRemer’s exit follows a series of serious allegations and an ongoing investigation by the department’s inspector general into claims of professional and personal misconduct.

According to multiple reports, she has been accused of having an affair with a member of her security detail. She has also faced allegations of keeping a “stash" of alcohol in her office and using government resources for personal travel.

Her aides are also under scrutiny for allegedly attempting to steer government grants towards politically connected individuals.

Further claims include reports that Chavez-DeRemer, along with senior aides and family members, routinely exchanged personal messages and requests with young staff members. The New York Times reported that she and a former deputy chief of staff allegedly asked employees to bring wine during official trips.

The inquiry has also examined communications involving her father and husband. According to reports, both men exchanged messages with young female staffers, with some correspondence raising concerns among investigators.

Separately, her husband Shawn DeRemer has faced serious allegations from at least two female staff members who claimed he sexually assaulted them at the Labour Department headquarters. His lawyer has denied the claims, while authorities declined to press charges.

Three staff members have reportedly filed civil rights complaints describing a hostile work environment. At least four officials have already left their posts as the investigation has progressed.

Third Top Female Official Out In 2 Months

Chavez-DeRemer is the third high-profile female cabinet-level official to leave the Trump administration in under two months.

Her departure follows the removal of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Attorney General Pam Bondi, both of whom exited within weeks of each other.

Chavez-DeRemer, a former Oregon congresswoman, leaves as Keith Sonderling is set to serve as acting Labour Secretary. The White House has not yet announced a permanent replacement.

(With inputs from agencies)

News world 'Affair To Drinking On Job': Trump's US Labour Secretary Steps Down Amid Misconduct Claims

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