President Biden Finally Takes Action, Fires Longtime Railroad Official for Creating Toxic Work Environment
Written by: T. Alexander
In a long-overdue move, President Joe Biden has decided to fire Martin Dickman, the inspector general of the U.S. Railroad Retirement Board (RRB), for creating a hostile work environment. The decision comes after an investigation was launched in January 2023 by the independent Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency, following allegations against Dickman.
According to the Washington Examiner, President Biden informed Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) of his decision in a letter. The investigation revealed evidence of Dickman's abusive behavior, including the use of crude and inappropriate language, slurs, and belittling of employees.
According to sources speaking to The Hill, many in the Biden administration were shocked that it took this long for action to be taken against Dickman, considering that he was confirmed for the position in 1994 under the Clinton administration.
To fill the vacancy, President Biden will designate Ben R. Wagner, the inspector general of the Tennessee Valley Authority, as the acting inspector general of RRB, according to the Washington Examiner.
Under the Securing Inspector General Independence Act of 2022, the president must provide Congress with a 30-day notice prior to removing an inspector general. This ensures transparency and accountability in the process.
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Dickman's firing marks the first time President Biden has taken such action against an inspector general for cause.
However, it raises concerns about the previous instances where he terminated the employment of other federal employees, including the former Architect of the Capitol, Brett Blanton, and former Social Security Commissioner, Andrew Saul. These actions raise questions about the president's judgment and decision-making process when it comes to personnel matters.
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