Hardee's CEO Andrew Puzder has withdrawn from his Labor Secretary nomination.
- Andrew Puzder with draws from Labor Secretary nomination
- At least 4 Republican senators said they would vote against Puzder
- Puzder under fire for labor issues, undocumented housekeeper
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Sources within the Republican Party said at least 4 Republican senators indicated they would vote against Puzder's confirmation.
Top Republicans urged the White House to withdraw Puzder's nomination, according to CNN, the Associated Press and other national news outlets.
Puzder was supposed to go before the full Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee Thursday for his nomination hearing, which had been delayed several times as he tried to untangle himself from his business holdings.
At least two of those Republicans who had said they would vote against Puzder's nomination are on that committee.
Puzder is one of the Cabinet nominees who has faced fierce opposition.
As CEO of Hardee's and Carl's Jr. fast food chains, Puzder turned the companies around, but also was criticized by Democrats for labor violations he was being investigated for, as well as his opposition to the minimum wage.
Recently he disclosed he had an undocumented immigrant in his employ.
Some Republicans said they were concerned over his failure to pay taxes for five years on the former housekeeper.
Puzder tweeted a short confirmation of his withdrawal Wednesday:
I am withdrawing my nomination for Secretary of Labor. I'm honored to have been considered and am grateful to all who have supported me.
— Andy Puzder (@AndyPuzder) February 15, 2017
Senator Marco Rubio, R-Florida, tweeted regarding Puzder's withdrawal:
Andy Puzder made the right & honorable choice by withdrawing from consideration as Labor Secretary.
— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 15, 2017
This is a developing story. Check back for the latest.
Information from CNN and Associated Press were used in this report.