CEO DATELINE - Business groups rally behind labor secretary nominee
CEO DATELINE - Business groups rally behind labor secretary nominee
- February 14, 2017 |
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Walt Williams
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More than 100 business groups have signed a letter urging the U.S. Senate to confirm the nomination of Andy Puzder as secretary of the Department of Labor as questions arise about his suitability for the role.
Puzder is the chief executive of CKE Restaurants, the company that oversees the fast food chains Hardee's and Carl's Jr.
Democrats and many liberal groups oppose Puzder's nomination because of his past criticism of minimum wage and other labor laws, but in recent days a few Republican senators have expressed skepticism as well. Among their concerns is the revelation the nominee once employed an undocumented housekeeper.
In a letter to senators, the business groups pointed to Puzder's record as head of a large corporation, saying he created jobs and opened pathways for people to pursue careers through a franchise model.
"Andy Puzder's confirmation as Secretary of Labor will help reinvigorate the direction of the department, as well as the spirit of America's business owners and workforce," the groups said in a letter. "He will be a stalwart champion for entrepreneurship and promote regulatory responsibility within the highest ranks of our government to ensure the lasting and prosperous impact of our nation's labor force."
The International Franchise Association organized the petition. Puzder was a member of IFA's board of directors before receiving the nomination.
"Andy would be an exceptional choice to lead the Labor Department and we applaud President Trump for recognizing Andy's business experience and policy acumen on so many issues impacting employers and employees in today's economy," IFA CEO Robert Cresanti said.
The American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers, American Hotel & Lodging Association, Associated Builders & Contractors, National Grocers Association and National Retail Federation are among the groups that signed the letter.
The Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions has scheduled Puzder's first confirmation hearing for Thursday. http://bit.ly/2kP78kw
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