President Biden’s nomination of Julie Su for Labor secretary presents an opportunity to appoint an experienced, historic, and committed leader who has dedicated her career to advocating for workers’ rights. Her nomination comes at a crucial time, as the country emerges from the economic crisis brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and workers across America are exercising their constitutional right to form a union in the face of corporate opposition and union-busting. At this critical juncture, workers need a strong advocate in the Department of Labor.
Su, a graduate of Stanford University and Harvard Law School who previously served as deputy labor secretary under Marty Walsh and as secretary of the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency, has an impressive record of successfully fighting for the rights of low-wage workers, immigrants, and other marginalized groups. She has spearheaded efforts to combat wage theft, expand access to health care and paid family leave, and provide legal services for workers facing exploitation. Her work has been recognized by numerous organizations including the MacArthur Foundation, which awarded her a “genius grant” in 2001.
Despite her obvious competency and qualifications, Su’s nomination has faced opposition and hesitation from some in the Senate, who have raised concerns about her administrative capability and support for policies with widespread backing from the American people, such as raising the minimum wage and expanding...
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