Earlier this week, Lori Chavez-DeRemer announced she would leave her post as labor secretary. Multiple outlets reported an internal investigation into alleged workplace misconduct; CBS News has not independently confirmed the allegations.
Reported allegations include alleged abuse of power — using taxpayer dollars for private travel — and accusations of an affair with a subordinate. Multiple accounts allege she created a workplace environment that allowed predatory behavior by her husband and father toward department employees. There also have been claims she drank during the workday. These are among the specific charges reported in the internal probe.
The main investigation was conducted by the Department of Labor inspector general (IG). The IG’s authority is limited when employees leave: once staff depart the department, the IG may no longer investigate or hold them accountable. That raises questions about the scope of accountability now that Chavez-DeRemer has resigned.
There are other avenues that could proceed. Reports said at least three women filed EEOC civil-rights workplace discrimination complaints related to allegations involving an environment that allowed her husband to behave in an allegedly predatory manner. EEOC claims, unlike the IG inquiry, can continue after an official’s departure. Additionally, an unnamed Iowa senator had been looking into some allegations; it was unclear whether that review would continue.
Lawmakers’ reactions were mixed but included relief from many Democrats after her departure. The resignation makes Chavez-DeRemer the third cabinet secretary to leave this year, following departures that also drew scrutiny. It remains unclear whether Chavez-DeRemer will face further accountability through the IG, EEOC complaints, congressional inquiries, or other mechanisms.