Andrew Puzder Withdraws From Consideration as Labor Secretary

Yesterday afternoon, President Donald Trump’s nominee for the Secretary of Labor, Andrew Puzder, withdrew from the process. The decision came after reports that at least four, and possibly as many as 12 Republican senators, were going to vote “no.”

Personal issues plagued Puzder throughout the confirmation process. Allegations that he hired an undocumented immigrant as a housekeeper didn’t sit well with many senators. And in 1990, his ex-wife appeared on Oprah’s show and accused him of abuse.

Andrew Puzder’s ex-wife on Oprah in 1990: His physical abuse caused permanent damage. https://t.co/DmeFOhVOZq pic.twitter.com/odEE0mfNhp

— Slate (@Slate) February 15, 2017

There were also allegations that Puzder mismanaged restaurants when he served as CEO of the company that owns Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s. Employees said they have filed a total of 33 complaints against his company, alleging wage theft, manipulated overtime, sexual harassment, and unfair labor practices. “No matter how you cut it, there is no worse pick for labor secretary than Andrew Puzder, and I’m encouraged my Republican colleagues are starting to agree,” said Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer yesterday.

Emma Von Zeipel

Emma Von Zeipel is a staff writer at Law Street Media. She is originally from one of the islands of Stockholm, Sweden. After working for Democratic Voice of Burma in Thailand, she ended up in New York City. She has a BA in journalism from Stockholm University and is passionate about human rights, good books, horses, and European chocolate. Contact Emma at EVonZeipel@LawStreetMedia.com.

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