President Joe Biden has nominated Julie Su to be the next Secretary of Labor, according to a White House announcement on Monday. If confirmed by the Senate, Su would become the first Asian American woman to lead the Labor Department.
Su currently serves as the Secretary of the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency, where she has worked to protect the rights of workers and promote economic growth. She is also a civil rights attorney who has been recognize for her work advocating for immigrant and low-wage workers.
Biden praised Su’s record on workers’ rights, saying in a statement that she has “spent her career fighting for working people and for an economy that works for everyone.” He also emphasized the importance of ensuring that workers have access to good-paying jobs and protections against discrimination and harassment.
The Secretary of Labor is responsible for overseeing the Department of Labor, which works to promote and protect the rights of workers, improve working conditions, and advance opportunities for all Americans. The position is a key member of the President’s Cabinet.
Su’s nomination is expect to face scrutiny from Republicans, who may raise concerns about her support for labor unions and workers’ rights. However, Democrats have expressed support for Su, with Senator Alex Padilla of California calling her “an outstanding choice” for the position.
If confirm, Su would replace current Labor Secretary Marty Walsh, who was nominate by former President Biden in January 2021.