Elections

Obama’s Labor Secretary Makes Hillary’s VP Shortlist

Connor D. Wolf/TheDCNF

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Labor Secretary Thomas Perez is among the last four standing for possible vice presidential pick by presumed Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton, according to reports Wednesday.

Perez has been an outspoken supporter of progressive and union policies throughout his career. He has also led the Department of Labor since being appointed by President Barack Obama in 2013. Perez is among the last three people currently being considered for Clinton’s running mate, reports The Associated Press.

Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Virginia Sen. Tim Kaine and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack were also listed to be in the running. Perez, however, could provide Clinton the boost she needs among those skeptical that she is truly committed to progressive causes. He has been a vocal supporter of the Fight for $15 movement and unions while also being an avid opponent of right-to-work legislation.

Clinton in contrasts has been unclear about her stance on the minimum wage. She originally said the federal minimum wage should not exceed $12 an hour but supported states which choose to go higher. Clinton then said during the Democratic debate Apr. 14 that she meant the $12 mark was meant to as a step towards eventually reaching $15 an hour.

Perez has been rumored for months to be along those being considered for the position. He addressed the rumors he could be picked as vice president June 18 when speaking with The Washington Post. Perez said at the time that he was much too focus on with his current job to even think about the rumors. He added that the political focus should currently be on Clinton.

Clinton won enough delegate support to secure the nomination June 6 over her primary rival Sen. Bernie Sanders. She was able to win support from Perez and other key Democrats like Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid, along with national unions. Perez has been highly critical of Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump throughout the election.

Clinton is expected to pick her running mate soon with the Democratic National Convention right around the corner.

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