WASHINGTON — Labor Secretary Hilda Solis resigned her post Wednesday, saying she plans to return to her native California. She is expected to run for a seat on the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.

In a message to colleagues, Solis said she made the decision to leave after discussing it with her family and close friends.

One of the highest-ranking Hispanics in Obama's administration, Solis has won praise from labor unions for aggressive enforcement of wage and hour laws and job safety regulations.