Watchdog report alleges misconduct by Trump’s former labour secretary

What the report says

A new federal watchdog report in the United States has detailed allegations of misconduct involving former Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, whose tenure ended in April. Al Jazeera, citing the Department of Labor’s Office of Inspector General, reported that the 44-page review drew on hundreds of documents and interviews with current and former department employees. It said witnesses described a workplace marked by intimidation and humiliation, while also alleging that Chavez-DeRemer used staff for personal errands, drank alcohol at work and failed to follow ethics rules.

According to the report, employees were asked to handle private tasks at her residence, including organizing clothing, moving items and buying gifts and alcohol. The watchdog also said there was no record of required approval for alcohol being consumed on federal property. It further alleged that Chavez-DeRemer had an improper relationship with a senior member of her security detail, though investigators did not conclude it was sexual. The report described conduct that created conflicts of interest and inappropriate work situations.

The review also raised concerns about travel spending and gifts that were not properly reported. Chavez-DeRemer, a former Republican member of Congress from Oregon, was sworn in as labor secretary in March 2025 and later became the third cabinet secretary to leave Trump’s second administration, after earlier departures at Homeland Security and Justice. The inspector general recommended changes to department structure, travel oversight and whistleblower protections.