Senate Republican Slams Trump’s FDIC Nominee Over Misconduct Claims

URGENT UPDATE: Tensions escalated in the Senate today as Senator John Kennedy (R-LA) unleashed a fierce critique of President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). During a Senate Banking Committee hearing on October 12, 2023, Kennedy expressed outrage over allegations of “pervasive sexual harassment and discrimination” within the agency, revealed by a 2024 investigation.

Kennedy did not hold back, stating, “I have had enough of this, and if your name came up in front of me right now, I wouldn’t vote for you.” His comments target acting FDIC Chair Travis Hill, who lacks personal allegations against him but is facing significant scrutiny regarding the agency’s handling of workplace misconduct. Kennedy’s remarks could jeopardize Hill’s confirmation, especially if the Democratic members of the committee remain united against him.

The senator demanded a comprehensive report from Hill within 30 days detailing how the FDIC has addressed the allegations of harassment. “Otherwise, you can forget about my vote,” Kennedy warned. He emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, stating, “Until I’m convinced that they’re not going to sweep this under the rug — and that there’s going to be justice for these young women that they touched and harassed and tried to have sex with — then I’m not going to go for him.”

In response, Hill assured the committee that “reforming the culture continues to be a top priority” at the FDIC. However, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) countered Hill’s claims, asserting that there is “no record” of any meaningful action taken to resolve the issues raised in the investigation.

This confrontation comes as a critical moment for Hill’s nomination, with the Senate poised to make a decision that could have lasting implications on the leadership and integrity of the FDIC. As the situation develops, all eyes will be on the committee’s next steps and whether Kennedy’s demands will be met in the coming weeks.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.