WHAT HAPPENED: The Senate on Wednesday night confirmed Keith Sonderling as Secretary of Labor, in its last vote before leaving Washington until after the midterm elections. The 47-41 vote was along party lines, with all Republicans present voting yes and all Democrats voting no.
ABOUT KEITH SONDERLING: Sonderling has led the department since April, when former Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer resigned. The Senate confirmed him as her deputy in March 2025. He worked at the Labor Department throughout President Trump’s first term and served on the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission until 2024. He previously practiced labor and employment law at a Florida firm.
WHY IT MATTERS: The Labor Department controls several issues that affect the poultry workforce, including guest worker programs, wage rules and workplace safety enforcement. Sonderling’s confirmation keeps the department’s current leadership in place. The department is pursuing business-friendly regulations while also stepping up enforcement of foreign worker program rules.
WHAT’S NEXT: Sonderling immediately assumes the cabinet position. The Senate returns for legislative business on November 9.
Sonderling at his confirmation hearing, July 30, 2026. The Senate HELP Committee advanced his nomination in a 12–11 party-line vote at the time.
