Senate Republican Rips Trump’s FDIC Nominee Over Misconduct Claims

UPDATE: Tensions erupted during a Senate Banking Committee hearing on Thursday as Senator John Kennedy (R-LA) harshly criticized Travis Hill, President Donald Trump‘s nominee to lead the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), over serious allegations of workplace misconduct within the agency. Kennedy’s fiery remarks come in the wake of a troubling 2024 investigation that uncovered “pervasive sexual harassment and discrimination” at the FDIC.

“I have had enough of this,” Kennedy stated emphatically, addressing Hill directly. He expressed his frustration that the acting FDIC Chair indicated no significant changes were planned to address the issues highlighted by the investigation. “If your name came up in front of me right now, I wouldn’t vote for you,” he added, emphasizing that his concerns were not about Hill’s qualifications but rather the agency’s handling of serious misconduct claims.

Kennedy’s strong pushback raises doubts about Hill’s confirmation, particularly if the committee’s Democrats unify against him. The senator demanded a report within 30 days detailing the FDIC’s actions regarding harassment allegations. “Otherwise, you can forget about my vote,” Kennedy warned. He further insisted that without assurance of accountability and justice for the victims, particularly the women subjected to harassment, he could not support Hill’s nomination.

In response, Hill asserted that reforming the agency’s culture remains a top priority, but his assurances failed to satisfy Kennedy. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) also challenged Hill’s claims, stating there is “no record” of any meaningful steps taken to rectify the issues within the FDIC.

The impact of this confrontation could significantly stall Hill’s appointment as permanent chair of the FDIC, a position he currently holds in an acting capacity. Hill, previously a senior aide and vice chair at the FDIC, has not faced personal accusations of misconduct, but the allegations surrounding the agency’s workplace environment could influence his future.

As this situation develops, all eyes will be on the Senate Banking Committee’s next steps and whether Kennedy’s demands for accountability will lead to real change within the FDIC. The urgency of these proceedings underscores the importance of addressing allegations of misconduct in high-stakes governmental positions.

Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.