Labor secretary’s husband banned from HQ after 2 staffers accuse him of sexual assault
The Hill
by Ryan ManciniFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Department of Labor (DOL) has restricted access to its headquarters for Lori Chavez-DeRemer’s husband, Dr. Shawn DeRemer, following allegations of sexual misconduct involving two female employees. The New York Times reported that the staffers accused DeRemer of inappropriate touching inside the DOL building, with one incident captured on security footage. This development raises questions about workplace safety and accountability within federal agencies.
Lori Chavez-DeRemer, the Secretary of Labor under President Trump, has not publicly addressed the allegations, though her husband’s restricted access suggests that formal investigations are underway. The incident highlights a growing concern over sexual misconduct in government workplaces, where power dynamics can complicate reporting and accountability. The involvement of a high-ranking official’s family member adds another layer of scrutiny, particularly given the sensitivity of the Department of Labor’s role in enforcing workplace safety laws.
This case matters to readers interested in politics because it underscores ongoing challenges in addressing sexual harassment and assault within government institutions. It also raises questions about how leaders handle such allegations involving their spouses or close associates. The lack of public statements from Chavez-DeRemer
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/20/2026