President Donald Trump announced he is nominating Keith Sonderling to be the permanent United States Secretary of Labor, sending the nomination to the Senate on June 29 and 30, 2026 [1, 2, 3]. Trump called Sonderling "the outstanding Acting United States Secretary of Labor" and praised his dedication, saying he expects Sonderling to do "an incredible job in his new role" [1, 2].

Sonderling was designated acting secretary by Trump on April 20, 2026, following the resignation of Lori Chavez-DeRemer earlier that month amid allegations including misconduct, sexual relationships with a security member, drinking on the job, hostile work environment, and misuse of staff [1, 2, 3].

Before serving as acting secretary, Sonderling had been Deputy Secretary of Labor, confirmed by the Senate on March 12, 2025 [2]. He previously held posts as Chief Operating Officer and Acting and Deputy Administrator of the Wage and Hour Division during Trump’s first term from 2017 to 2020 [1, 2, 3].

On June 17, 2026, Sonderling sent letters to 53 states demanding action to combat unemployment insurance fraud and warned that states allowing fraud risk losing administrative funds [1]. He specifically targeted Democrat-led states such as California, New York, and Illinois for having the highest fraud levels, though he provided no evidence to support this claim [1]. Sonderling said, "We are officially putting governors on notice. The American people will no longer tolerate the blatant waste, fraud, and abuse of their hard-earned tax dollars – no state should allow it either... This department is no longer afraid to use every lever available to ensure taxpayer money is protected" [1].

In his statement on the nomination, Sonderling expressed gratitude to Trump and said, "Serving in both of President Trump’s Administrations has been the greatest honor of my life. If confirmed by the Senate, I look forward to continuing that service as Secretary of Labor and advancing the President’s agenda on behalf of America’s workers, families, unions, and job creators" [1].

The Senate has yet to schedule hearings on Sonderling’s nomination. His confirmation process will determine whether he secures the permanent role after serving in an acting capacity since April.