Oregon’s new labor commissioner sworn in

SALEM, Ore. (AP) – Oregon’s new labor commissioner has an ambitious agenda, but an investigation pushed by her predecessor on sexual harassment in the Capitol looms – and the report drew new criticism.

Val Hoyle, a former state legislator, was sworn in Monday by Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum.

For the first time in Oregon history, most of the five statewide elected executive offices are now held by women.

Now, Hoyle must deal with an investigation released Thursday that condemned top lawmakers for allegedly allowing sexual harassment to persist in the Capitol.

Rep. Diego Hernandez, D-Portland, who was named in the report even though a rumor against him was unsubstantiated, said it only furthered a smear campaign.