Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su Remains Hopeful Despite Opposition to Confirmation

Despite facing significant opposition, Julie Su, the Acting Labor Secretary, remains resolute in her pursuit to become confirmed as the official Labor Secretary after being nominated by President Joe Biden over a year ago. In her recent appearance on "The Takeout" podcast, she expressed her dedication to the role, emphasizing her commitment to the American people and the responsibilities of the position.

Challenges and Opposition

Julie Su has encountered formidable challenges in the confirmation process, with opposition from Senate Republicans and West Virginia Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin. The primary point of contention revolves around her tenure as California's labor commissioner, during which she grappled with the management of $31 billion in fraudulent unemployment claims amidst the pandemic. Despite the opposition, Su remains unwavering in her determination to fulfill the role of Labor Secretary.

Advocacy and Achievements

Supporters of Su highlight her efforts in resolving complex labor issues, such as averting a potential freight rail strike and negotiating significant agreements between West Coast dockworkers and shippers. These accomplishments underscore Su's commitment to fostering positive outcomes through collaborative negotiations, demonstrating her capability in handling intricate labor challenges.

Hopeful Outlook

While encountering resistance to her nomination, Julie Su maintains an optimistic outlook, expressing gratitude for the support she has received and reiterating her determination to serve in the best interests of working individuals. Despite the obstacles, she remains focused on fulfilling the responsibilities entrusted to her, motivated by the belief in the importance of advocating for the rights of workers and contributing to the progress of the labor sector.

Economic Perspective and Policy Impact

During her interview on "The Takeout," Julie Su emphasized the positive impact of the Biden administration's economic policies, citing the creation of 14.9 million jobs since President Biden assumed office and maintaining an unemployment rate of under 4% for the past two years. She credited the administration’s policies for averting the forecasted recession, asserting the efficacy of the economic strategies implemented under President Biden's leadership.

Outlook and Endorsements

Although the opposition to her confirmation remains steadfast, Julie Su expressed appreciation for the support extended by numerous senators and conveyed her resolve to continue advocating for the confirmation as Labor Secretary. Her unwavering commitment to the role and the endorsement she has garnered reflect her dedication to serving the interests of the American workforce.