The Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America Inc. on Thursday said retiring president and CEO Bob Rusbuldt had been asked to resign immediately following its legislative conference held in April.
In a statement, the IIABA also issued an apology for an “unfortunate interview segment” that was conducted at the conference between Mr. Rusbuldt and Jesse Watters, a Fox News host.
CNN reported Thursday that Mr. Watters made a crude comment questioning the gender of Vice President Kamala Harris during the interview with Mr. Rusbuldt at the annual event held by the Alexandria, Virginia-based organization.
“The Big “I” strives to be a fair, open, and inclusive organization and we do not condone racist, sexist, or homophobic statements or behavior,” the IIABA said in the statement.
In response to the incident, “we had Mr. Rusbuldt relinquish his operational duties immediately following the Legislative Conference,” the IIABA said, adding that it was “disappointed” to see Mr. Rusbuldt end his career at the organization in this way.
“We do not in any way condone or agree with any of Mr. Rusbuldt’s statements, but we must take full responsibility for them,” the organization said.
Mr. Rusbuldt had been due to retire on Aug. 31, 2023, after more than two decades at the helm of the organization. Charles Symington, interim executive vice president, last year was named to succeed Mr. Rusbuldt effective Oct. 1.
The IIABA went on to say that it deeply regretted that the incident occurred at an event intended to celebrate its organization and membership.
“We have been working with our diversity, equity and inclusion team internally and externally since the event on ways to foster a more inclusive and respectful culture and ensure that nothing like this ever happens again,” the IIABA said.
Recordings of the interview are not available.
