Va. congressman responds to the firing of NLRB member Wilcox

PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) — Rep. Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03) of the House Committee on Education and Workforce condemned President Donald Trump’s recent decision to fire Gwynne Wilcox, the first Black woman to serve on the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), calling it an illegal act that undermines the integrity of the independent federal agency.

“The National Labor Relations Board is designed to function independently, free from direct political interference,” Scott said in a statement following the dismissal. “The President of the United States cannot fire a sitting Board Member without cause, such as malfeasance, neglect of duty, or misconduct. Member Wilcox has also been denied her right to due process and a hearing. No President has the right to rule by decree and ignore explicit protections provided by federal law. President Trump’s actions are obviously illegal and will be challenged in the Courts.”

Scott emphasized that Wilcox’s ouster leaves the NLRB without a quorum, hindering its ability to issue decisions on cases involving unfair labor practices. This lack of functionality could delay justice for workers seeking to hold union-busting companies accountable, creating uncertainty for both employees and employers alike, Scott said.

The congressman also pointed to ongoing investigations into allegations of unfair labor practices at businesses owned by Elon Musk, suggesting that Wilcox’s departure raises concerns about the future of these inquiries.

“Member Wilcox is a dedicated public servant, who has spent her entire career defending workers’ rights to form a union and bargain for higher pay, safer workplaces, and better benefits,” a release states. “President Trump must reinstate Member Wilcox immediately.”

As the political fallout from this decision begins to unfold, it remains to be seen how the situation will impact labor relations and the ongoing functions of the NLRB.