(Mark E. Johnson, Contributor) What happens in Vegas doesn’t always stay in Vegas.
According to a complaint from the United States Office of Inspector General, Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, who is married, traveled with her federal bodyguard to a Las Vegas casino resort and spa in October while the two were engaged in “an inappropriate relationship.”
While Sec. Chavez-DeRemer, 57, serves at the pleasure of the president, the bodyguard has been placed on administrative leave and the secretary’s two top aides have been suspended after they allegedly helped facilitate the pair’s improper “work trips.”
As an open supporter of labor unions, Chavez-DeRemer is somewhat of a maverick in the MAGA movement. According to Bloomberg Law, she has sought to position herself as a bridge between Trump and organized labor and serves as the face of his efforts to support workers.
“As the daughter of a Teamster, Lori Chavez-DeRemer knows the importance of carrying a union card and what it means to grow up in a middle-class household.” – Teamsters General President Sean O’Brien
Chavez-DeRemer spent much of her first year as Labor Secretary on a 50-state tour.
A Department of Labor spokeswoman has denied the allegations, and the White House has come to Chavez-DeRemer’s defense.
“The Department will not comment on internal or personnel matters and cannot confirm or deny the existence of an IG investigation,” DOL spox Courtney Parella said. “The Secretary remains focused on carrying out the Department’s mission and supporting American workers.”
Chavez-DeRemer’s personal attorney, Nick Oberheiden, also denied wrongdoing on her part while declining to comment further.
MUST BE NICE: “Frou-Frou Drinks Galore”
The secretary and her bodyguard are alleged to have cavorted at the Red Rock Casino, Resort and Spa.
According to the resort’s website:
The Red Rock Casino, Resort and Spa officially opened on April 18th, 2006. Red Rock’s serene surroundings, distinctive decor, and impeccable standard of service ensure that your visit is flawless and fabulous. Whether relaxing in our expansive pool back yard, playing your hand at Poker or savoring a first-class meal, our resort has a flavor for all vacation tastes and desires.
Eden awaits inside our pool backyard. More than three acres of poolside perfection beckon your bare feet, with 19 irresistible private cabanas, swim up gaming and an exotic island. Or, cruise over to the Sand Bar, where you can enjoy refreshing bites, cool cocktails and frou-frou drinks galore.
At the Spa at Red Rock, more than 35,000 square feet of tranquil, luxurious surroundings invite you to a level of relaxation beyond your wildest dreams. Featuring private treatment suites that appear to float on the water, the Red Rock Spa is a sleek, ultra-modern retreat complete with a state-of-the-art fitness center and salon. The spa’s holistic treatments promote health and rejuvenation, nourishing your mind, body and spirit long after you depart.
All deluxe rooms have a view of either the strip or of the Red Rock Canyons. Red Rock offers luxuriously appointed guest accommodations with panoramic views. Whether you’re an early riser or stay-up-all-nighter, our luxurious accommodations offer a spacious retreat from the action and excitement. All rooms come fully-equipped with 42-inch plasma TVs, iPod sound systems, in-room spa service and ooh-la-la linens. And then, there’s the view. Some call it awe-inspiring, others say it’s mesmerizing, we’ll let you come up with your own adjectives.
