WASHINGTON (March 23, 2021) — Former Boston Mayor Martin Walsh has been confirmed as secretary of labor in a Senate vote this week. Walsh is notable in that he is the first union leader to serve in the position in more than 40 years. Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) released a statement supporting the appointment and encouraging Walsh to focus on the construction industry.

“Secretary Walsh has a construction background and knows our industry, so ABC urges him to work with us to create conditions that benefit the entire industry. By encouraging the participation of both union and open shop contractors, we can harness the strength and talent of our full construction industry to rebuild America, and the results will be more inclusive and ultimately more successful. I believe that as a public servant, Secretary Walsh understands the practical impact of federal regulations on state and local stakeholders. We look forward to working with him to create the landscape so that each worker and job creator can prosper in a safe and healthy environment.”