Story perspectives

Trump Backs Labor Secretary Amid Investigation Into Misconduct

1/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump backs Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer as Inspector General Anthony D’Esposito begins an investigation into misconduct allegations, including inappropriate relationships and travel fraud, following a formal complaint reported by the New York Post.
Aides Jihun Han and Rebecca Wright have been placed on leave.
The Labor Department denies the allegations and will not comment further.
Karoline Leavitt, Trump’s Press Secretary, said Chavez-DeRemer is performing well.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump backs Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer as Inspector General Anthony D’Esposito begins an investigation into misconduct allegations, including inappropriate relationships and travel fraud, following a formal complaint reported by the New York Post.
Aides Jihun Han and Rebecca Wright have been placed on leave.
The Labor Department denies the allegations and will not comment further.
Karoline Leavitt, Trump’s Press Secretary, said Chavez-DeRemer is performing well.