01.28.25

Scott Statement on Illegal Firing of NLRB Member Wilcox

WASHINGTON – Ranking Member Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03), House Committee on Education and Workforce released the following statement after President Trump fired National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) Gwynne Wilcox, the first Black woman to serve on the Board.

“The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) is an independent federal agency designed to function without direct political interference.  The President of the United States cannot fire a sitting Board Member without cause, such as malfeasance, neglect of duty, or misconduct.  Member Wilcox has also been denied her right to due process and a hearing.  No President has the right to rule by decree and ignore explicit protections provided by federal law.  President Trump’s actions are obviously illegal and will be challenged in the Courts.

“Moreover, without Member Wilcox the Board will be without a quorum.  This means the Board cannot issue decisions to hold union-busting companies accountable and further stymying justice for workers fighting for better conditions.  This means disputes of unfair labor practices will remain unresolved causing uncertainty for workers and their employers.  This now calls into the question the status of the Board’s investigations of Elon Musk’s businesses, which are under scrutiny for unfair labor practices. 

“Member Wilcox is a dedicated public servant, who has spent her entire career defending workers’ rights to form a union and bargain for higher pay, safer workplaces, and better benefits.  President Trump must reinstate Member Wilcox immediately.” 

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