New labor secretary nominee Alexander Acosta received backing from his long-standing supporters in construction unions. The presidents of the International Union of Operating Engineers and the International Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America both released statements of support for Acosta in 2003, when he was serving on the NLRB. They reaffirmed their belief in him following his nomination on February 16. The Carpenter's president specifically cited Acosta's dedication to helping the middle class and fighting against payroll fraud. Contractor groups are also announcing their support for the candidate who is seen by many as "uniquely qualified" in labor and employment law.
See "Acosta Gets Thumbs Up From Construction Unions, Contractors", Elliot T. Dube, Bloomberg BNA, February 21, 2017