Statement on Resignation of Labor Secretary Amid Investigation

Bethesda, MD, April 21, 2026 — The resignation of Lori Chavez-DeRemer as Secretary of Labor must not stop the agency's Inspector General investigation. Chavez-DeRemer reportedly is under investigation for alleged misconduct, including an inappropriate relationship with a subordinate, misuse of government resources for personal benefit, directing staff to perform personal errands, fostering a hostile work environment, and engaging in inappropriate communications with employees.

Reports that the Department of Labor’s Office of Inspector General is actively investigating these matters make it imperative that the work proceed without interference. Any effort—direct or indirect—to curtail, delay, or narrow that investigation would raise profound concerns about the integrity of the process.

If an OIG stops an investigation when an employee leaves the department, it is essentially giving a free pass to any employee to engage in misconduct and get off scot-free. That has not been – and should never be – a standard policy for any inspector general.

The breadth and seriousness of these allegations only heighten the need for a thorough, independent review. At moments like this, the American people deserve clear answers—and those answers must come from a process that is free from political influence.

That concern is especially acute given questions that have been raised about the independence of Anthony D’Esposito. When an Inspector General has a perceived or documented political background, it places an even greater responsibility on that office to demonstrate independence in both fact and appearance. The credibility of this investigation—and public confidence in its outcome—depends on it.

Inspectors general are designed to follow the facts wherever they lead, regardless of the position or power of those involved. That independence is most critical when allegations reach senior leadership. Anything less risks undermining not only this investigation, but the essential role of oversight in our system of government.

Congress must exercise vigilant oversight to ensure that this investigation proceeds without obstruction and that the Inspector General has the independence, resources, and support necessary to do its job.

Mark Lee Greenblatt is a former Inspector General of the U.S. Department of the Interior and Chair of the Council of Inspectors General, as well as the author of Valor: Unsung Heroes from Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Home Front (Rowman & Littlefield). More information about Greenblatt is available at www.markleegreenblatt.com.

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