Story perspectives

Labor Secretary Chavez-DeRemer Resigns Amid Affair, Drinking Scandal

4/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer resigned on April 20 after allegations of an affair, drinking on the job, and after The New York Times reported text messages showing she drank during work hours.
Kristi Noem and Pam Bondi were dismissed, illustrating rapid turnover among senior officials.
Columnists Bret Stephens and Frank Bruni called the cabinet a collection of “the worst of the worst,” warning that such appointments erode competent governance.

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Story summary

Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer resigned on April 20 after allegations of an affair, drinking on the job, and after The New York Times reported text messages showing she drank during work hours.
Kristi Noem and Pam Bondi were dismissed, illustrating rapid turnover among senior officials.
Columnists Bret Stephens and Frank Bruni called the cabinet a collection of “the worst of the worst,” warning that such appointments erode competent governance.