19.01.2026 01:00
A comprehensive internal investigation launched against U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer has stirred up Washington, D.C. Allegations reflected in inspector reports include the stocking of alcohol in the department office, a visit to a strip club using public funds, bullying of employees, and inappropriate relationships among senior executives.
U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer is facing a series of serious allegations, ranging from stockpiling alcohol in her office to using public funds to take her subordinates to a strip club. The investigation initiated by inspectors also claims that Chavez-DeRemer had a relationship with a subordinate. Two senior officials of the department have been suspended in light of the allegations.
FROM OFFICIAL PROGRAM TO STRIP CLUB
The most striking finding in the investigation file was Secretary Chavez-DeRemer's visit to Oregon in April 2025. The official itinerary, which had a total cost of $2,890, included items such as a visit to the Intel chip center and a meeting with the Governor, while evidence emerged that the Secretary took her delegation to a strip club called "Angels PDX" in Portland.
ALLEGATIONS OF "BULLYING AND ALCOHOL" IN THE DEPARTMENT
Reports have indicated that the Secretary kept a personal stock of alcohol in her office and consumed it during working hours. Additionally, it was stated that the Secretary's senior aides, Jihun Han and Rebecca Wright, created a hostile work environment by systematically bullying staff. Both individuals have been placed on administrative leave as part of the investigation.
TRAVEL FRAUD AND INAPPROPRIATE RELATIONSHIP INVESTIGATION
Inspectors scrutinized not only unethical behavior but also financial irregularities. The investigation revealed the following findings:
Travel fraud: It was alleged that false payment items were created for subordinates during official trips, diverting public resources.
Love scandal: Video recordings and internal communications were examined regarding allegations that Secretary Chavez-DeRemer had an "inappropriate relationship" with a subordinate. The involved staff member has been suspended.
FIRST STATEMENT FROM THE DEPARTMENT
The Secretary's attorney, Dr. Nick Oberheiden, defended the allegations as baseless, stating, "The Secretary categorically denies any wrongdoing. Her focus is to serve the American people." The spokesperson for the Department of Labor preferred to remain silent, stating that "no comments will be made regarding personnel matters."