Trump to Nominate Acting Labor Secretary Sonderling for Permanent Role

Washington — President Donald Trump is set to nominate acting Labor Secretary Keith Sonderling for the permanent role, according to multiple news reports. Sonderling has led the Department of Labor since Lori Chavez-DeRemer resigned April 20 amid allegations of professional misconduct.

Nomination Details

Trump nominated Sonderling for deputy labor secretary in January 2025. The Senate confirmed his nomination with a 53-46 party-line vote two months later. Sonderling’s nomination process is expected to include another hearing before the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee. He appeared before that committee in February 2025.

Trump Statement

“Throughout his career, Keith has proven his dedication to delivering strong results for the hardworking people of our country, and I know he will do an incredible job in his new role,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social account, according to Safety+Health Magazine.

Sonderling Career Background

Sonderling was a member of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission from September 2020 until August 2024. He also served as the acting administrator and deputy administrator for the DOL Wage and Hour Division. Before his time with the federal government, Sonderling was a labor and employment lawyer in his home state of Florida and lectured at the George Washington University Law School, according to Safety+Health Magazine.