FDIC Chair Martin Gruenberg Resigns Amid Sexual Harassment Allegations

On Monday, May 20th, Martin Gruenberg, Chairman of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), announced his resignation following a damning independent investigation that uncovered pervasive sexual harassment, discrimination, and bullying at the agency. Gruenberg, who has been with the FDIC for nearly two decades and served as its chair for nearly ten of the past thirteen years, stated he would step down once a successor is confirmed.

The investigation, conducted by the law firm Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton, corroborated findings revealing a toxic workplace culture at the FDIC. The report documented multiple instances of Gruenberg losing his temper with subordinates, which reportedly discouraged staff from delivering unfavorable news. Although Gruenberg was not solely blamed for the cultural issues, his behavior was cited as a barrier to effective leadership.

Senator Sherrod Brown, chair of the Senate Banking Committee, was among the first to call for Gruenberg’s resignation, urging President Joe Biden to nominate a replacement swiftly. Brown emphasized the need for fundamental changes at the FDIC, starting with new leadership. In response, White House Deputy Press Secretary Sam Michel assured that a new nominee would be announced soon, though the confirmation process could be protracted.

Gruenberg’s decision to remain in his role until a successor is confirmed prevents Vice Chair Travis Hill, a Republican appointee, from automatically assuming the chairmanship. This avoids potential deadlock on the FDIC’s board, which could have hindered significant regulatory measures, including increased capital requirements for large banks.

The FDIC declined to comment beyond Gruenberg’s statement, which acknowledged his responsibility for the report’s findings and his commitment to transforming the agency’s workplace culture. Gruenberg faced bipartisan criticism during recent congressional hearings, with many lawmakers expressing doubts about his ability to lead the necessary reforms.

Senator Tim Scott, the ranking Republican on the Senate Banking Committee, criticized Gruenberg’s decision not to resign immediately, accusing the administration of prioritizing a political agenda over worker protection. Meanwhile, Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren dismissed calls for Gruenberg’s resignation as politically motivated, suggesting that his departure would not necessarily improve the FDIC’s culture.

The FDIC, alongside the Federal Reserve and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, is currently engaged in several regulatory initiatives aimed at tightening oversight of large banks. Gruenberg’s resignation marks a significant leadership change at a critical time for the agency.