Biography

Martin J. Walsh was sworn in as the 29th Secretary of Labor on March 23, 2021. A lifelong champion of equity and fairness, and a proud product of the City of Boston, Secretary Walsh leads the U.S. Department of Labor with a strong connection to working people, and a commitment to creating an economy that works for all.

He previously served as the 54th Mayor of Boston from 2014 until 2021. While mayor, he led the creation of close to 140,000 jobs and helped secure a statewide $15/hour minimum wage, paid sick leave, and paid parental leave. He established universal, high-quality pre-Kindergarten and free community college for low-income students.

In 1997, Mr. Walsh was elected to serve as a State Representative for one of the most diverse districts in Massachusetts. There, he focused on creating good jobs, protecting workers’ rights, expanding mental health treatment, and investing in public transit. While working full-time as a legislator, he returned to school to earn a degree in Political Science at Boston College.

Leadership Positions

• Secretary, U.S. Department of Labor
• Mayor, City of Boston, MA (2014-2021)
• State Representative, Commonwealth of Massachusetts (1997-2014)