Marty Walsh, two-term Mayor of Boston and nominated for Secretary of Labor by President Biden, has moved closer to a hearing on his confirmation in front of the Senate, having completed the initial vetting and administrative steps.

Walsh comes from an organized labor background, specifically in the construction industry, but is known for his ability to work with employers on labor issues. When he initially began his first term as mayor, there was concern amongst non-union constituencies that he would be overly pro-labor. However, those constituencies came to realize that while he is pro-labor, he is not so pro-labor to the exclusion of all other interests. Walsh’s appearance in front of the Senate panel that will initially evaluate him should reveal the character and depth of his commitment to compromise and unity.