Embattled Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer hit with discrimination complaints over response to husband’s alleged sexual misconduct

Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer is facing accusations of retaliating against female employees who reported her husband for alleged sexual misconduct. The allegations have resulted in at least three Equal Employment Opportunity complaints being filed against Chavez-DeRemer.

Two of the complaints were made by young female staffers who claimed that Shawn DeRemer, the labor secretary’s husband, sexually abused them at the department’s Washington, DC headquarters. The grievances were first reported by MSNOW and later confirmed by The Post.

The complaints accuse Chavez-DeRemer of workplace discrimination and creating a hostile environment after her husband’s alleged misconduct was reported. Employees felt afraid of repercussions for speaking out or resisting inappropriate directives. One complaint even alleged that Chavez-DeRemer ordered staffers to perform personal tasks for her, such as cleaning out her closets.

These complaints come in the midst of a broader investigation into the alleged “hostile” work environment fostered by Chavez-DeRemer and her senior aides. Previous reports have also highlighted other misconduct during her official duties, including making up official trips for personal reasons, drinking on the job, and pursuing an inappropriate relationship with a member of her security detail.

In February, the DC US Attorney’s Office declined to charge Shawn DeRemer in relation to the December 2025 sexual misconduct allegations. The Federal Protective Service, a Department of Homeland Security subagency, also chose not to pursue the case.

One incident involving Shawn DeRemer was captured on office security cameras, showing him giving one of the women a prolonged hug. DC police reviewed the footage as part of their investigation into the misdemeanor sex abuse case, leading to DeRemer being barred from the building.

DeRemer’s attorney, James Bell, has vehemently denied all allegations on behalf of his client. The Labor Department has not yet responded to requests for comment on the matter.

The ongoing controversy surrounding Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer and her husband’s alleged misconduct has raised serious concerns about workplace conduct and accountability within the department. It remains to be seen how these allegations will be addressed and what actions will be taken to ensure a safe and respectful work environment for all employees.