NewsKPBS Public MediaSeptember 4, 2026San Diego
Labor Department Inspector General report finds former Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer violated workplace harassment and ethics policies
A new report from the Labor Department's Office of Inspector General concludes that former Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer violated internal harassment policies and misused government resources for personal tasks. Investigators found that Chavez-DeRemer and her senior staff fostered a toxic work environment and improperly used official travel funds for personal trips, though the report stopped short of alleging criminal law violations.
Read the full story at KPBS Public MediaWhy It Matters
The report details how taxpayer-funded resources and government personnel were diverted for the personal use of a cabinet-level official, raising questions about oversight and ethical compliance within the Department of Labor.
Key Facts
Each fact below is taken from the article. Click one to see the exact passage.
Who's Mentioned
personNick Oberheiden“Legal counsel for Chavez-DeRemer.”organizationLabor Department“The federal department where the alleged misconduct occurred.”organizationOffice of Inspector General“The internal watchdog that conducted the investigation.”personJihun Han“Accused of abusive communication with staff.”personKeith Sonderling“Promoted following Chavez-DeRemer's resignation.”personRebecca Wright“Accused of abusive communication and discriminatory hiring practices.”personLori Chavez-DeRemer“Subject of the OIG investigation regarding workplace conduct and ethics.”personAnthony D'Esposito“Led the OIG investigation.”