By Lindsay Press
President Donald Trump has nominated former Congressman Anthony D’Esposito as an inspector general of the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). If he were to get the job, he would be responsible for performing audits to determine the efficiency and effectiveness of DOL initiatives.
The DOL is responsible for fostering, promoting, and developing the welfare of wage earners, job seekers, and retirees in the United States.
Prior to being elected to the House of Representatives in 2022, in a seat left vacant by George Santos, D’Esposito was a member of the Hempstead Town Council in 2016, winning re-election again in 2017 for a full term, according to his congressional campaign website. He ran for re-election last year, but lost to Democrat challenger Laura Gillen.
The following bills introduced and sponsored by D’Espostio that have passed the House included:
- Research Security and Accountability in DHS Act
- 9/11 Memorial and Museum Act
- To amend title XIX of the Social Security Act to further require certain additional provider screening under the Medicaid program
- Police Our Border Act
- Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Extension Act of 2023
In addition, the website noted, he spent more than 10 years as a NYPD detective. During his career with the NYPD, he made over 600 arrests in connection with murders, shootings, assaults and illegal firearms. D’Esposito also served as Chief of the Island Park Fire Department when Superstorm Sandy devastated the region.
Law enforcement groups were ecstatic over D’Esposito’s nomination.
“Congratulations to former Congressman Anthony D’Esposito on his nomination by Donald J. Trump to be Inspector General of the Department of Labor,” the Suffolk County PBA posted on Twitter/X. “Whether servicing as an NYPD detective or as a Congressman, D’Esposito has a proven record of getting the job done, and we are confident he will continue that excellence in his newly appointed position.”
“Congratulations to @ANTHONYDESPO on his nomination to be Inspector General of Labor Department by President Trump!” the Nassau County PBA posted on Twitter/X. “Former Congressman D’Esposito has always been a proud supporter of Law Enforcement and his proven track record in Washington makes him a great choice!”
In 2024, D’Esposito sparked controversy over his character following alleged claims of an affair. According to ABC News, D’Esposito hired both his fiancee’s daughter and his mistress to work in his office; both received taxpayer-funded salaries. D’Esposito claimed he did not break any laws.
“It is an honor to be nominated by President Trump to serve as the Inspector General of the Department of Labor,” D’Esposito said in a statement to Newsday. “I look forward to continuing my service to the people of our great country in this new role.”