“The president’s nomination of Thomas E. Perez as the next secretary of labor means America’s workers will continue to have a strong advocate for safer working conditions, workers’ rights and growing a more competitive workforce,” said David Foster, executive director of the group made up of labor unions and environmentalists. “As we take on the important priority of climate change, our next labor secretary will be an important voice on protecting our working families and communities. Worker training and transition programs will be vitally important for a smooth transition as we ready the country for climate change.

“As we create more jobs and grow the economy, we look forward to working with Thomas Perez to create the fair and safe job opportunities that all Americans deserve,” Foster said.