Senate confirms Alexander Acosta as labor secretary

Source: Washington Examiner | April 27, 2017 | Sean Higgins

The Senate voted Thursday afternoon to confirm Alexander Acosta as the new secretary of labor. The 60-38 vote fills the last open seat in President Trump’s Cabinet.

Acosta served as assistant attorney general for civil rights during President George W. Bush’s administration. He was also on the National Labor Relations Board from 2002-2003 and was a U.S. attorney for the southern district of Florida. Prior to his confirmation, Acosta had been dean of Florida International University Law School.

Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, highlighted Acosta’s background as the son of Cuban immigrants and the first person in his family to have a college education. Alexander said the Acosta’s credentials and experience made him “well-qualified” for the position and noted that the Senate had confirmed him three times previously.

“He understands that a good-paying job is critical to helping workers realize the American dream for themselves and for their families,” Alexander said.

The pick has been praised by Republicans and business groups. “We look forward to working with Secretary Acosta on workforce training and career development initiatives like the retail industry’s RISE Up program to create new career opportunities for employees and help American businesses grow,” said David French, senior vice president for government relations for the National Retail Federation.

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