Ranking Member Tim Scott (R-S.C.) issued a statement following President Biden's nomination of Christy Goldsmith Romero to replace Martin Gruenberg as Chair of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). Scott previously called for Gruenberg’s resignation last December.
"FDIC employees deserve a safe workplace that allows them to focus on their important mission to safeguard our country’s financial security. Unfortunately, under the leadership of Chairman Gruenberg, that hasn’t been the case," said Scott. "I will review Christy Goldsmith Romero’s nomination to ensure she has the qualities necessary to support employees, lead the FDIC through the changes it desperately needs, and return credibility to the independent agency. But let me be clear – Chairman Gruenberg should resign immediately. Every day he remains Chairman means the agency can’t move forward and heal or begin the process of restoring a respectable, dignified workplace culture at the FDIC."
Following initial reports of sexual harassment and a toxic workplace culture at the FDIC, Scott had promised rigorous oversight to address these issues. In December, he led fellow Banking Committee Republicans in requesting detailed information from Gruenberg regarding these allegations and called for his resignation. Despite months of silence from Gruenberg after promising transparency, Scott renewed his demands in March.
An independent report investigating allegations of sexual harassment and toxic work culture at the FDIC prompted Scott to urge Gruenberg's resignation again. During a Senate Banking Committee hearing with Gruenberg, Scott reiterated his call for his resignation and formally requested a separate hearing on the independent report, citing concerns over pervasive toxic culture, racial discrimination, and sexual harassment affecting the agency's mission.
FDIC employees may confidentially contact Ranking Member Scott’s Committee staff if they wish to disclose information regarding waste, fraud, abuse—including sexual harassment or discrimination—or any other misconduct at the FDIC by emailing RepWhistleblowers@banking.senate.gov or calling 202-224-4287.