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Trump Dismisses FLRA Chairwoman Susan Tsui Grundmann
In a significant move reflecting ongoing changes within federal oversight agencies, President Trump has reportedly dismissed Susan Tsui Grundmann from her position as Chairwoman of the Federal Labor Relations Authority (FLRA). This action is part of a broader trend where the administration has been replacing Democratic appointees while notably refraining from nominating Republican successors.
Grundmann’s tenure was not scheduled to conclude until July 2025. Federal regulations stipulate that members of the FLRA can only be removed for specific reasons such as “inefficiency, neglect of duty or malfeasance in office,” and that a hearing must precede any such dismissal.
On Tuesday, Grundmann’s profile was removed from the FLRA’s official website, which now indicates the chair position as unoccupied. As of the same day, the other board members, Anne Wagner and Republican Colleen Duffy Kiko, remained in their respective roles.
In a message sent on Tuesday morning, which was later accessed by Government Executive, Grundmann confirmed her termination and expressed gratitude towards the FLRA staff for their dedication during her service. She stated, “While this action was not entirely unexpected, I did not want the day to pass without saying farewell and to salute you, once again, for all that you do and all that you stand for.” She also reflected on her career, stating, “It has been the privilege of my career to serve with you, which allowed me, once again, to return to my roots in the federal labor relations community. You renew my faith in the strength and resilience of our society, and in the selflessness of those who steadfastly serve.”
This dismissal is part of a sweeping initiative to remove officials from various federal oversight roles, a trend that has escalated since Trump took office. His administration has terminated more than a dozen inspectors general, as well as Democratic appointees serving on entities like the Merit System Protection Board and the National Labor Relations Board. Furthermore, the leaders of the offices of Special Counsel and Government Ethics have also faced removal, although Special Counsel Hampton Dellinger has since been reinstated until at least Thursday.
As of now, Grundmann has not indicated whether she plans to contest her dismissal and has not replied to requests for further comments. The FLRA itself has also remained silent in response to inquiries regarding this development.
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