Full Breakdown
Investigation into Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer
1/18/2026, 1:56:32 AM
Overview of the Investigation
Multiple employees at the U.S. Department of Labor have been placed on administrative leave amid an ongoing investigation by the department's inspector general into alleged misconduct involving Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer. The inquiry focuses on claims that Chavez-DeRemer's chief of staff, Jihun Han, and deputy chief of staff, Rebecca Wright, engaged in "travel fraud" by organizing official events to justify personal travel expenses. Additionally, there are allegations that Chavez-DeRemer pursued an inappropriate relationship with a subordinate.
Key Figures Involved
- Lori Chavez-DeRemer: Secretary of Labor, under investigation for alleged misconduct.
- Jihun Han: Chief of Staff, implicated in the travel fraud allegations.
- Rebecca Wright: Deputy Chief of Staff, also implicated in the travel fraud allegations.
- Anthony D’Esposito: Newly appointed Inspector General overseeing the investigation.
Official Responses
The Labor Department has refrained from commenting on specific personnel matters, emphasizing that Secretary Chavez-DeRemer remains focused on her duties. A spokesperson stated, “The Secretary remains focused on carrying out the Department’s mission and supporting American workers.” White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that President Donald Trump is aware of the investigation and continues to support Chavez-DeRemer, asserting that she is performing well in her role.
Background Context
Chavez-DeRemer, who previously served as a congresswoman from Oregon from 2023 to 2025, was confirmed as Labor Secretary in March 2025 by a Senate vote of 67 to 32. Her appointment was seen as significant due to her representation of a diverse coalition that supported Trump in the election. The inspector general's investigation is particularly notable as it could impact her standing within the Cabinet, which Trump has publicly praised for its stability.
Implications of the Investigation
The inspector general's office has extensive powers to investigate allegations of misconduct, including the ability to obtain government documents and interview staff. The outcome of this investigation could have serious implications for Chavez-DeRemer's future in the Cabinet, especially if damaging information emerges or if GOP leaders in Congress express discontent. Observers note that replacing a Republican labor secretary who has support from both business groups and unions could be politically challenging for Trump.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the investigation is ongoing, there are no confirmed details regarding the specific nature of the allegations against Chavez-DeRemer beyond those reported. The Labor Department has not disclosed whether Chavez-DeRemer will continue her planned initiatives, such as a 50-state listening tour aimed at connecting with workers.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He’s aware of the internal investigation, and he stands by the secretary, and he thinks that she’s doing a tremendous job at the Department of Labor on behalf of American workers,” — Karoline Leavitt, White House Press Secretary
- “Every step backwards requires three or four steps uphill in terms of regaining the public’s trust.” — Will Fletcher, President of the Association of Inspectors General
The investigation into Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer represents a critical juncture in her tenure, as she navigates allegations that could affect her position and the broader mission of the Department of Labor.
