Trump Nominates Keith Sonderling as Permanent Labor Secretary

President Donald Trump announced on June 29, 2026, his nomination of Keith E. Sonderling to serve as the permanent U.S. Secretary of Labor. Sonderling has served as Acting Secretary since April 2026, following the resignation of former Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer. Trump praised Sonderling’s track record and commitment to American workers in a Truth Social post.

In his statement, Trump highlighted Sonderling’s prior roles, including Deputy Secretary and Chief Operating Officer of the Department of Labor. During Trump’s first term, Sonderling served as Acting and Deputy Administrator of the Wage and Hour Division. Trump noted that Sonderling has consistently delivered strong results for hardworking Americans and expressed confidence in his ability to excel in the permanent role.

Sonderling’s background positions him as a seasoned insider with deep experience in labor policy and enforcement. He was confirmed by the Senate as Deputy Secretary in March 2025. Earlier in his career, he held positions at the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), focusing on workplace regulations and compliance. His tenure in the Wage and Hour Division during Trump’s first term emphasized enforcement of federal wage and hour laws, including overtime protections and minimum wage standards, while advancing policies aligned with reducing regulatory burdens on businesses.

Chavez-DeRemer resigned amid an inspector general investigation into workplace misconduct allegations involving her husband, Shawn DeRemer. She became the third Cabinet official to depart during Trump’s second term. Sonderling stepped into the acting role to provide continuity at the department, which oversees critical functions such as workplace safety, wage standards, labor statistics, and international labor affairs.

The nomination underscores the Trump administration’s focus on aligning the Labor Department with priorities that support American workers and businesses. Sonderling has advocated for practical approaches to workplace issues, including guidance on emerging technologies like artificial intelligence in hiring while maintaining compliance with existing laws. His experience in enforcement and policy implementation is expected to advance goals such as strengthening overtime protections, combating wage theft, and ensuring fair competition in the labor market.

As Acting Secretary, Sonderling has guided the department through ongoing efforts to enforce labor standards and support workforce development initiatives. The permanent nomination signals stability and a continued emphasis on results-oriented leadership. Trump administration allies and business groups have expressed support, viewing Sonderling as well-positioned to address challenges in labor policy without unnecessary regulatory expansion.

The Senate is expected to review the nomination through the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, where Republican leadership has signaled readiness to advance qualified candidates aligned with administration objectives. Sonderling’s confirmation would formalize his leadership role at a time when the department plays a key part in broader economic policies, including job creation and protections for American workers.

This move continues the administration’s pattern of elevating experienced officials to key posts, ensuring consistent execution of policies that prioritize domestic labor markets and enforcement of existing laws. Sonderling’s extensive background in both enforcement and operational management at the Labor Department equips him to navigate complex workplace issues while advancing the administration’s vision for a stronger, more competitive U.S. workforce. Further details on the nomination process and Sonderling’s agenda will emerge as Senate proceedings advance.