A comprehensive report released by the
Chavez-DeRemer, who was appointed to the cabinet position by Donald Trump in January 2025, resigned from her post in April 2026 as the investigation into her conduct intensified. The findings, based on statements from 38 witnesses, describe a pattern of behavior that allegedly included the consumption of alcohol on federal property during official working hours and the improper use of government funds for personal travel.
Allegations of Misconduct and Improper Conduct
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Among the most specific claims is an incident during a personal trip to Oregon, where Chavez-DeRemer allegedly requested a visit to a strip club. The report states that she instructed an assigned driver to accompany her into the establishment and provided him with cash, directing him to distribute the money to a dancer. When the agent initially hesitated, he was reportedly ordered by the ASAIC to comply with the Secretary’s instructions. The agent ultimately followed the directive against his own wishes.
Financial Misuse and Workplace Environment
The investigation further scrutinized the use of agency funds, identifying at least 13 trips where Chavez-DeRemer visited family or personal residences, alongside five separate visits to Las Vegas. The report alleges that her travel expenses frequently exceeded authorized limits, citing stays at luxury hotels and spas. Additionally, witnesses reported that Chavez-DeRemer frequently directed staff to perform personal errands during work hours, such as organizing her private closets.
The OIG concluded that these actions contributed to a workplace environment described as toxic, intimidating, and humiliating. In response to the findings, Nick Oberheiden, an attorney representing Chavez-DeRemer, dismissed the report’s significance. In an emailed statement, Oberheiden characterized the investigation as untimely and moot, asserting that the former Secretary maintains she did not violate any laws during her time in office.
