Joco Today

U.S. Senator Roger Marshall of Kansas took part in the confirmation hearing for President Donald Trump's nominee for Secretary of Labor, Lori Chavez-DeRemer. The hearing was held by the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.

Lori Chavez-DeRemer previously served as a congresswoman representing Oregon’s 5th district from 2023 to 2025. Senator Marshall had met with Chavez-DeRemer prior to the hearing and expressed confidence in her ability to advocate for American workers.

During the session, Senator Marshall asked Chavez-DeRemer about her plans to enhance workforce development opportunities and address the needs of both unionized and non-unionized workers and employers.

In his remarks, Senator Marshall stated: “Welcome, Congresswoman. Thank you for being here today. I’m so grateful for President Trump nominating you. I think when he did this, it was certainly a shout-out to the hard-working men and women across this country.”

He further added: “I want to talk about workplace development for a second... our participation rate isn’t as good... What can we do? What can you do to help support them and help them be successful?”

Chavez-DeRemer responded: “Thank you, Senator Marshall…it was great meeting with you because we had that conversation about workforce development... I commit to you that I will work hard for the Department of Labor... I look forward to making this wholeheartedly a pillar of the Department of Labor, is workforce investment and development.”

Senator Marshall also discussed balancing interests between unions and franchise models: “I want to take a moment and talk about the franchise model again… How do we achieve that balance? Any thoughts on where’s the win/win opportunity when it comes to that issue?”

Chavez-DeRemer replied: “Well, a lot of times the references to the gig economy... And I support the efforts of...the franchise model... everybody has to have that voice and understanding at the table… We can protect all American workers.”

She emphasized bringing everyone together: “We can protect all American workers...bringing everybody to the table is going to do just that, and reinforce the things that we care about.”