Labor Secretary's Husband Barred from Department Headquarters Amid Sexual Assault Allegations
Shawn DeRemer, the husband of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, has been prohibited from entering the Labor Department's headquarters after at least two women accused him of sexual assault, according to multiple reports released on Thursday. The allegations involve inappropriate touching incidents that reportedly occurred inside the building, with one encounter allegedly captured on surveillance footage from December 18.
Details of the Accusations and Evidence
The New York Times reported that the women accused DeRemer, an anesthesiologist, of touching them inappropriately. A source disclosed to the Times that the December footage shows DeRemer giving a woman an extended hug, which has raised concerns. Additionally, a report filed by the Metropolitan Police Department on January 24 stated that a complainant reported a sexual contact against her will at the Labor Department, as confirmed by Politico and The Wall Street Journal.
In response to these allegations, DeRemer has been formally barred from the Labor Department building. A building restriction notice, cited by the Times, explicitly states that if Mr. DeRemer attempts to enter, he is to be asked to leave immediately. This action underscores the seriousness with which the department is treating the accusations.
Denial and Ongoing Investigation
Shawn DeRemer has vehemently denied any wrongdoing. In a phone interview with The Wall Street Journal, he stated, "I have not done any of this and I categorically deny these things. I will absolutely categorically fight everything in this." Despite his denial, the ban remains in effect as investigations proceed.
The Labor Department has not provided an immediate comment in response to requests from HuffPost, leaving many questions unanswered about the internal handling of the situation.
Broader Context and Related Investigations
These accusations against DeRemer emerged during an inspector general's investigation into Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer. She is under scrutiny for allegations that she abused her position by having an inappropriate relationship with a member of her security detail, drinking alcohol on the job, and taking personal trips at taxpayer expense. The secretary has denied these allegations, which were initially reported by The New York Post.
As a result of the inspector general's probe, several top aides have been placed on administrative leave. This includes chief of staff Jihun Han, deputy chief of staff Rebecca Wright, and the security staffer allegedly involved in the relationship with the secretary. These developments highlight the broader ethical and operational challenges facing the Labor Department.
Background on Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer
Lori Chavez-DeRemer, who previously represented Oregon's 5th District in the U.S. House for a single term before losing reelection in 2024, was confirmed as labor secretary in March of last year. Her tenure has now been overshadowed by these dual investigations, casting a shadow over her leadership and the department's integrity.
The ongoing inspector general's investigation into both the secretary and her husband continues to unfold, with potential implications for departmental policies and public trust. As more details emerge, the focus remains on ensuring accountability and transparency within the federal agency.
