Senator Rand Paul (R-Ky.) is making waves by opposing former Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer, President Trump’s pick for Labor Secretary. Paul, a staunch defender of state-level labor laws, criticized Chavez-DeRemer for supporting policies that align more closely with union interests than traditional Republican values.
“She’ll lose 15 Republicans but gain 25 Democrats,” Paul quipped, hinting that her nomination might face stiff resistance within the GOP. “She might even get all the Democrats. Who knows?”
This high-profile opposition adds fuel to the ongoing debate about the direction of Republican labor policy.
A Divisive Nomination
Trump announced Chavez-DeRemer’s nomination last year, praising her work bridging the gap between business and labor. “Lori has worked tirelessly with both Business and Labor to build America’s workforce and support the hardworking men and women of America,” Trump stated.
But Chavez-DeRemer’s tenure in Congress from 2023 to 2025 left a bitter taste for many conservatives. Her support for the controversial PRO Act—a union-backed bill that would override state-level right-to-work laws—has drawn fire from Republicans like Paul. Right-to-work laws are considered a cornerstone of conservative labor policy, allowing workers to opt out of union membership and dues.
Union Support Raises Red Flags
Chavez-DeRemer’s nomination has won praise from union leaders. American Federation of Teachers (AFT) President Randi Weingarten called her record “a hopeful sign,” tweeting that she supports “workers and their right to unionize.”
But Republicans, including Paul, view her union-friendly record as a betrayal of GOP principles. Paul warned that the PRO Act would “pre-empt state law” and erode worker freedoms. His vocal criticism signals deeper divisions within the party about the balance between supporting labor and adhering to free-market principles.
Conclusion
Trump’s choice of Chavez-DeRemer as Labor Secretary has reignited debates over labor policy and Republican unity. Will her nomination proceed with Democratic support, or will opposition from within her own party sink her chances? The confirmation process could become a litmus test for the GOP’s stance on labor issues.
