In a recent development, President Biden has reportedly made the decision to terminate Martin Dickman, the inspector general of the U.S. Railroad Retirement Board (RRB).
The decision comes as a result of allegations of creating a hostile work environment. President Biden personally informed Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) of this decision on Friday.
In a letter to Johnson, President Biden announced the termination following the completion of an investigation initiated in January 2023 by the independent Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency. The investigation was launched in response to allegations against Dickman.
According to a source, the investigation uncovered evidence of Dickman’s creation of a toxic work environment and his engagement in abusive behavior.
This behavior allegedly included the use of crude and inappropriate language, as well as the belittlement of employees.
Dickman, who was confirmed for the position in 1994 under the Clinton administration, will be placed on administrative leave effective immediately.
His employment will be terminated on April 28.
President Biden has chosen Ben R. Wagner, the current inspector general of the Tennessee Valley Authority, to serve as the acting inspector general of RRB. While serving as acting inspector general, Wagner will continue to fulfill his other role.
According to the Securing Inspector General Independence Act of 2022, it is now required for the president to inform Congress at least 30 days in advance before removing an inspector general.
According to a source, the Biden administration recognized the concerns regarding the toxic work environment that ultimately led to Dickman’s termination.
As a result, they determined that it was necessary to appoint an external leader from outside RRB. This is why Wagner was chosen for the position.
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