Obama's Labor Pick Dogged By Tax Issues

February 7, 2009 7:34 p.m. EST

Miami, FL (AHN) - Another one of President Barack Obama's cabinet picks is being held up because of questions over unpaid taxes. This time it's his pick for Labor secretary, Hilda Solis, a California Democratic congresswoman. According to the Los Angeles Times, Solis' husband, Sam Sayyad, has $6,400 in tax liens filed against his business.

The White House didn't learn about the liens on its own, but only became aware of the issue following a question from a USA Today reporter to the Senate Health, Labor and Pensions Committee.

Some of the tax liens have been on file for 16 years, according to the Washington Post.

Confirmation hearing have been called off after the issue came to light. The hearings have not been immediately rescheduled.

The White House defended Solis, saying she is not a partner in Sayyad's auto repair business, and therefor should not be responsible for its tax issues.

Solis is the fourth cabinet candidate to face questions over not paying taxes.