Acosta nominated for Secretary of Labor
In his first solo news conference since taking office, President Donald Trump addressed reporters Thursday in the White House.
Trump announced R. Alexander Acosta would be nominated for U.S. Secretary of Labor. Acosta, currently the dean of the Florida International University Law School and a graduate of Harvard University Law School, has served in three other senate-confirmed positions.
“He has a law degree from Harvard Law School, was a great student. Former clerk for Justice Samuel Alito. And he has had a tremendous career,” Trump said.
Acosta, who was a first-generation university graduate and lawyer, was nominated after Andrew Puzder withdrew his name from the position Wednesday.
FIU President Mark Rosenberg also highlighted Acosta’s background as being a point of pride.
“Alex Acosta is a thoughtful, conscientious American who is dedicated to excellence, integrity and public service,” he said in a statement. “We are proud that he is the first Hispanic nominated to serve in President Trump’s cabinet.”