The husband of Lori Chavez-DeRemer, former Labor Secretary under Donald Trump, has reportedly been barred from the Department of Labor’s main headquarters in Washington, D.C., following accusations of sexual assault from at least two female staff members. According to reports from major outlets, including the New York Times, Politico, and the Wall Street Journal, Shawn DeRemer faces allegations of inappropriate physical contact with the women within the Frances Perkins Building, named after the first female member of the U.S. cabinet.
The alleged incidents reportedly occurred in December, with at least one captured on security cameras during working hours. A police report from the Metropolitan Police Department indicates that a complaint was filed on January 24 concerning an incident that took place on December 18. The report reveals that one complainant accused DeRemer of engaging in unwanted sexual contact.
As investigations unfold, sources have disclosed that security personnel were notified in late January to prevent DeRemer from entering the building. He has publicly denied all allegations, asserting, “I have not done any of this, and I categorically deny these things. I will absolutely, categorically fight everything in this.”
Lori Chavez-DeRemer, who previously served as a congresswoman, has been under scrutiny herself amidst separate allegations of misconduct. Notably, a security officer assigned to protect her has reportedly been placed on leave pending investigations into a purported romantic relationship with her. Moreover, two of her top aides have also been placed on leave due to inquiries into claims regarding her behavior, including consuming alcohol in her office during work hours and improperly using taxpayer resources for personal travel, including trips to Las Vegas.
Both the Department of Labor and Chavez-DeRemer’s legal representative have rejected these allegations.
The ongoing situation has raised serious concerns about workplace conduct and accountability within high-ranking government positions. As this story develops, it highlights the pressing need for a serious reflection on workplace culture, particularly in environments where power dynamics can lead to abuse and misconduct. While the allegations are serious, they also provide an opportunity for re-evaluating institutional practices aimed at creating safer workplaces for all employees.