Trump labor secretary’s husband barred from department over sexual assault allegations, reports say

The Guardian World

by Robert Mackey and Mollie Reilly

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The husband of Lori Chavez-DeRemer, Donald Trump’s labor secretary, has been barred from accessing the Department of Labor headquarters in Washington following allegations of sexual assault by at least two female staff members. The New York Times, Politico, and Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday that Shawn DeRemer was restricted from entering the building after the accusations were made. These developments come amid growing scrutiny of Chavez-DeRemer herself, who is already under investigation for alleged misconduct. The allegations against DeRemer add another layer to an unfolding scandal involving the Trump administration. Sources close to the Department of Labor confirmed that the two female employees came forward with their claims, leading to immediate security restrictions on DeRemer’s access. The reports highlight a concerning pattern of behavior that has now drawn significant media attention and raised questions about workplace safety and accountability. Chavez-DeRemer, who has been under fire for her own alleged missteps, is now further entangled in the controversy surrounding her husband. This incident underscores the broader challenges faced by the Trump administration in addressing allegations of misconduct within its ranks. The timing of these revelations also coincides with increasing public and political scrutiny of ethical standards in government. This story matters because it sheds light on the ongoing issues of workplace harassment and the need for transparency in high-ranking government positions. The allegations against both Chavez-DeRemer and her husband have sparked debates about accountability, not just within the Trump administration but across the broader political landscape. As more details emerge, the case is likely to influence discussions about ethical governance and the importance of addressing such issues proactively. In a broader context, this situation reflects the growing emphasis on workplace safety and the consequences of failing to address allegations of misconduct. The attention paid to these cases highlights the need for robust policies and mechanisms to ensure that all individuals feel safe and protected in their workplaces, regardless of their position or influence.

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/20/2026