Labor Secretary's Husband Banned from Building After Assault Allegations

Shawn DeRemer, husband of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, accused of inappropriate touching by department employees

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Shawn DeRemer, the husband of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, has been banned from entering the Labor Department headquarters after two women who work there reported that he had touched them inappropriately. At least one staff member filed a police report against DeRemer, alleging sexual contact without consent. Administration officials have told DeRemer not to enter the building, and the White House is aware of the situation.

Why it matters

These allegations against the Labor Secretary's husband raise serious concerns about workplace safety and misconduct at the highest levels of the federal government. The Labor Department is responsible for enforcing laws that protect workers, making these claims particularly troubling.

The details

According to a police report obtained by CBS News, one of the accusers said DeRemer made sexual contact with her against her will on December 18 at the Labor Department headquarters in Washington, D.C. Administration officials have since banned DeRemer from entering the building, and the White House is aware of the situation.

  • On December 18, one of the accusers said DeRemer made sexual contact with her against her will at the Labor Department headquarters.
  • After the allegations, administration officials told DeRemer not to enter the Labor Department building.

The players

Lori Chavez-DeRemer

The current U.S. Labor Secretary, who previously served as mayor of Happy Valley, Oregon and as a Republican congresswoman.

Shawn DeRemer

The husband of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, who is an anesthesiologist based in Portland and the president and executive medical director of a medical clinic.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Shawn DeRemer out on bail.

The takeaway

These allegations against the Labor Secretary's husband highlight the importance of addressing workplace misconduct and sexual assault, even at the highest levels of government. It raises questions about the Labor Department's ability to enforce worker protections if its own employees feel unsafe.