Truckers criticize Trump’s appointed labor rep

A trucking group expressed criticism towards President-elect Donald Trump’s appointed
U.S. Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer citing her “anti-trucking policies.”

The American Trucking Association, the largest national trade association for the trucking
industry, said Chavez-DeRemer’s past positions in Congress undermine independent truckers
and threaten supply chain efficiency in a statement on November 25.

“These anti-trucking policies undermine our essential workforce, threaten the right of
independent truckers to choose their own career path, and impede the efficiency of the supply
chain,” the statement reads.

“The 8.5 million men and women who work in our industry are the heartbeat of the nation, and
we reserve our support for Chavez-DeRemer’s nomination until we receive greater clarity from
her on these issues that are so vital to our workforce.”

A key point of contention is her support for the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act,
which broadens union protections. The act prevents employers from mandating anti-union
meetings and imposes stricter criteria for classifying workers as independent contractors. Critics
argue that the act could disrupt the flexibility of self-employed workers.
Meanwhile, unions have lauded Chavez-DeRemer’s recent appointment highlighting her strong
pro-worker stance.

Harold Daggett, president of the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), expressed
optimism about her tenure, noting her efforts to safeguard workers’ rights to organize.
“We look forward to working with Ms. Chavez-DeRemer and [the Trump] administration on
legislation and policies that protect workers’ rights, safety, and honor their commitment to
building a strong economy,” Daggett said in a statement.

Sean O’Brien, president of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, also praised Chavez-
DeRemer, calling her a reliable ally of unions. O’Brien commended the Trump administration’s
pledge to engage with labor organizations and seek common ground to protect and respect
workers’ rights.