President Joe Biden’s nominee to develop into the following Labor Department secretary, Julie Su, was thrust additional into jeopardy on Thursday after Sen. Joe Manchin III got here out in opposition.
The conservative West Virginia Democrat mentioned he has “genuine concern” that Ms. Su, who’s serving as appearing secretary and whose nomination has been in limbo since February, is simply too progressive.
“I believe the person leading the U.S. Department of Labor should have the experience to collaboratively lead both labor and industry to forge compromises acceptable to both parties,” Mr. Manchin mentioned in an announcement. “While her credentials and qualifications are impressive, I have genuine concerns that Julie Su’s more progressive background prevents her from doing this and for that reason, I cannot support her nomination to serve as Secretary of Labor.”
Mr. Manchin’s opposition marks a reversal from his prior vote to verify Ms. Su as deputy labor secretary two years in the past. However, he has more and more voted in opposition to Mr. Biden’s nominees because the 2024 election attracts close to, whilst he stays undecided on reelection.
The White House’s headache doesn’t cease with Mr. Manchin.
A White House official mentioned that Independent Sen. Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona, who like Mr. Manchin is going through a tricky re-election subsequent yr, can be leaning in opposition to Ms. Su. Ms. Sinema caucuses with Democrats and has not taken a public stance.
Given Senate Democrats’ razon-thin one-seat majority, the White House can solely afford yet one more Democratic defector earlier than being compelled to throw within the towel on Ms. Su. All GOP senators are anticipated to oppose her affirmation.
“The president’s support for Acting Secretary Su is unwavering, and we hope Senator Manchin and Senator Sinema reconsider their position,” the White House official mentioned. “President Biden and his team continue fighting for Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su’s confirmation — because she is highly qualified, experienced and has proven herself time and time again when it comes to delivering for America’s workers and our economy.”
Sen. Mark Kelly, Arizona Democrat, revealed this week he would help Ms. Su. But Montana Sen. Jon Tester, one other Democrat going through powerful re-election odds, declined to publicly take a place.
Ms. Su took over as appearing secretary in March when Labor Secretary Marty Walsh left his submit to run the NHL Players’ Association.
It’s not clear when — if ever — Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer will be capable to maintain a remaining affirmation vote.
“I think she’ll be a very good labor secretary, and we’re working hard to get her approved,” the New York Democrat informed reporters earlier this week.
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