U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, delivered remarks during a confirmation hearing for three nominees to key labor positions in the Trump administration. The hearing considered Scott Mayer and James Murphy for seats on the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), as well as Rosario Palmieri for Assistant Secretary of Labor for Policy.
Cassidy opened the session by acknowledging the nominees and their families for their service. He highlighted the NLRB’s role in resolving labor disputes and protecting workers’ rights under federal law. Cassidy criticized actions taken by the Biden administration's NLRB, stating that it "weaponized its authority against workers" and "overturned decades of NLRB precedent," which he said led to instability for both workers and the economy.
He also noted that some Democrat-led states have used a lack of quorum at the NLRB as justification to assume its authority, which he argued undermines workers' ability to organize and file claims when their rights are violated.
Cassidy expressed support for President Trump's approach to labor policy: "President Trump is focused on delivering the most pro-worker administration in history. To do this, he needs Board members who are fair and who put American workers first. The NLRB nominees before us today are aligned in the President’s vision."
Speaking about James Murphy, Cassidy said: "We’ll be hearing from Mr. Jim Murphy, who brings decades of legal experience at the NLRB, including as former chief counsel to three former Board members. His strong record shows a commitment to upholding labor law and creating stability for both workers and employers."
On Scott Mayer's nomination, Cassidy stated: "The Committee will also be considering Mr. Scott Mayer for the second NLRB seat. For decades, Mr. Mayer has worked to negotiate fair contracts between businesses and labor unions. This expertise will be crucial as the administration looks to realign the Board to prioritize workers’ rights."
Regarding Rosario Palmieri’s nomination at the Department of Labor, Cassidy said: "Beyond the NLRB, we will also hear from Rosario Palmieri, nominated to be Assistant Secretary for Policy at the Department of Labor. Mr. Palmieri brings extensive experience in federal policy, including at the Office and Management and Budget and multiple congressional committees. He’s committed to working with Congress to modernize DOL, including to create greater flexibility for states to administer workforce programs."
Cassidy concluded his remarks by thanking all attendees before yielding time to Senator Sanders.
For further information or updates from HELP Republicans visit their website or Twitter account @GOPHELP.
