MEET ALEXANDER ACOSTA – AMERICA’S NEXT LABOR SECRETARY

Some fast facts and a summary of what key leaders have said about President Trump’s nominee to lead America’s Department of Labor:

February 17, 2017

 

Alexander Acosta – Biographical Facts: Born in Miami, Florida in 1969 (48 years old) Son of Cuban immigrants First generation college student who graduated from both Harvard College and Harvard Law Clerked for Justice Samuel Alito when the future Supreme Court Justice sat on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit Practiced law at the prestigious firm of Kirkland & Ellis Confirmed by U.S. Senate to serve three different presidentially appointed positions: National Labor Relations Board Assistant Attorney General U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida As U.S. Attorney, prosecuted high profile cases against: Corrupt lobbyist Jack Abramoff Terrorist conspirator José Padilla Founders of the murderous Cali Cartel Named one of the nation’s 50 most influential Hispanics by Hispanic Business Magazine (twice) Named one of the 100 most influential individuals in business ethics (2008) Serves on numerous boards and commissions: Florida Innocence Commission Florida Supreme Court’s Commission on Professionalism American Bar Association’s Commission for Hispanic Rights and Responsibilities American Bar Association’s Council for Racial and Ethnic Diversity in the Education Pipeline Dean of the Florida International University College of Law since 2009 WHAT THEY’RE SAYING ABOUT ALEXANDER ACOSTA Senator Marco Rubio: “I know Alex Acosta well, and he is a phenomenal choice to lead the Department of Labor. Whether it was his distinguished service as U.S. attorney in Florida’s Southern District or as dean of Florida International University’s school of law, Alex has succeeded in all endeavors he has taken on, and managing the Department of Labor will be no different. “I look forward to his confirmation hearing, where I’m confident he will impress my colleagues and secure the support necessary to be the next secretary of labor.” Richard Trumka, AFL-CIO: “Alexander Acosta’s nomination deserves serious consideration.”  “A public servant with experience enforcing [labor law].”  Leonard Leo, The Federalist Society: “A brilliant nomination by the president, with indispensable support from [White House] Counsel Donald McGahn, who had his eye on him as early as the summer months.”  Becky Norton Dunlop, The Heritage Foundation: “Alex will bring years of crucial experience to the department he is now nominated to lead – having served as a law clerk to Justice Samuel Alito on the U.S. Court of Appeal for the Third Circuit and as a former United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida.”  “We can rely on Alex to implement principled reforms while at labor and look forward to the important work he will do.” Harold Schaitberger, International Association of Fire Fighters: “We always found him to be fair, reasonable and accessible. His long and distinguished career in law and government service make him a strong candidate to serve as our country’s next Labor Secretary.” Senator Ted Cruz: “I applaud President Trump for nominating Alex Acosta to be Secretary of Labor. I’ve known Alex for over twenty years; he and I went to law school together, and he’s a smart, principled conservative with a passion for justice. His record of service, inclusion, and accomplishment spans decades.” “His nomination to the Labor Department is great news for workers and for job creation in our country.” Senator Mike Lee: “I love the guy.” “He’s a former Alito clerk, along with me, and I really like him. He’s a good strong conservative, understands the law. [He’s as] smart as the day is long, and I think he’ll be fantastic.” Senator Lamar Alexander: “Mr. Acosta’s nomination is off to a good start because he’s already been confirmed by the Senate three times. He has an impressive work and academic background. We will schedule a hearing promptly after his nomination papers arrive in the Senate, and I look forward to exploring his views on how American workers can best adjust to the rapidly changing workplace.” Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart: “I am excited to learn of Alex Acosta’s nomination for Labor Secretary. He has an impressive record of achievement, having served on the National Labor Relations Board, as well as receiving  presidential appointments to both U.S. Attorney for Southern District of Florida and Assistant Attorney General during his career.” “Alex has also been an exemplary Dean of one of the best law schools in the state, leading FIU to earn the highest bar passage rates in Florida for three years in a row. He is a man of great principle, integrity, and courage, and I am confident he will do an excellent job serving our nation.” Editorial, Miami Herald: “Trump got this nomination right. It’s a sharp, outside-of-the-box choice, one that throws another spotlight on Miami and its substantial homegrown talent…” Wilma Liebman, Former Democratic NLRB Member: “Even though we often came out differently on policy conclusions or the outcome of a case, he was a good colleague and he was always willing to talk and bounce around ideas.” “I would say he’s very smart and he’s an independent thinker.” Javier Palomarez, U.S. Hispanic Chamber Of Commerce: “R. Alexander Acosta is an outstanding choice for this cabinet position.” “His record reflects a skill set and expertise both in the private and public sector which will serve the administration and the nation greatly.”   Robert Cresanti, International Franchise Association: “Mr. Acosta exemplary record handling labor issues as a member of the NLRB has shown the appropriate balance needed protect the interests of employees and employers.” “Given he has been confirmed with bipartisan support by the U.S. Senate three times, we are hopeful that there will be bipartisan support for his nomination in the U.S. Senate, so a new Labor Secretary can address the regulatory issues facing the franchise model as quickly as possible.”  Mario Rodriguez, Chairman of Hispanic 100 Policy Committee: “I feel that Mr. Acosta is a strong, tactical, and qualified choice that will bring both extensive experience and knowledge to President Trump’s Cabinet, while effectively representing out culturally diverse nation.” Arturo Vargas, NALEO Educational Fund: “[This is] a very positive development. . . we believe he served the country well. So we look forward to his confirmation process.” Mark Rosenberg, Florida International University: “Alex Acosta is a thoughtful, conscientious American who is dedicated to excellence, integrity and public service. We are proud that he is the first Hispanic nominated to serve in President Trump’s cabinet.” José Gabilondo, Florida International University Law: “He’s a very mature person with a sense of decorum, and I think he’ll make a very big contribution to the administration.”