News

Hardee's CEO and labor secretary nominee admits hiring undocumented immigrant

February 7, 2017

Controversy and contention have followed CKE Restaurant Group CEO Andrew F. Puzder since President Trump nominated him for Labor Secretary, and today it appears that may all be coming to a head. According to the New York Times this morning, Puzder has admitted that he previously hired an undocumented immigrant to clean his home, a fact that could well botch his eligibility for a job safeguarding the rights, laws and concerns of the nation's workforce. 

Last week, more than 100 organizationsdevoted to labor rights, as well as women's equality and environmental justice denounced the nomination. Previously, Puzder's thoughts, which have been publicized on everything from overtime pay, sick leave and automation, have stirred up a lot of resistance to his nomination. 

Likewise, his confirmation has also been on hold while authorities awaited proper documentation of his divestiture in holdings that might conflict with the labor secretary's responsibilities. 

In the Times' article, Puzder is quoted in a released statement, saying, "My wife and I employed a housekeeper for a few years, during which I was unaware that she was not legally permitted to work in the U.S. When I learned of her status, we immediately ended her employment and offered her assistance in getting legal status."

The article states that Puzder claims he paid taxes in full to the I.R.S. and California after learning of the immigrant's undocumented status.