Perez Confirmed As New Secretary of Labor

President Obama’s nominee to head up the Dept. of Labor was confirmed today by the U.S. Senate on a party line vote, 54-46.  Mr. Perez nomination has languished in the Senate for several months in part because of allegations of unprofessional and politicized behavior while Mr. Perez was Assistant Attorney General within the Dept. of Justice’s Civil Rights Division.  At present it is unclear how Mr. Perez’ leadership will impact OSHA’s focus on enforcement.  During his confirmation hearings, Mr. Perez stated his focus as Sec. of Labor would be on jobs creation remarking “I believe it’s critically important to get Americans back to work, and I believe the Department of Labor can play a critical role.”