Sen. Grassley Endorses Red Cross Ombuds

Earlier this month, Senator Chuck Grassley met with the chairs of the Red Cross Board of Governors and Independent Governance Advisory Panel to continue conversations about the recent governance changes at the Red Cross. Commenting on the Red Cross Board’s decisions, Senator Grassley said:

I'm glad to see the Red Cross taking action on the important recommendations made by an independent panel. Public confidence has been shaken, and the reform effort needs to go the extra mile to help restore it. Continued independent oversight from an ombudsman-type figure would make a positive contribution to this effort. (Red Cross Press Release.)

Although Grassley's comments seem to reflect a misunderstanding of the role for the Red Cross ombuds office, it is a welcome change from his initial antipathy toward the CDC ombuds office.

Related posts: CDC Ombuds Become Focus of Sen. Grassley's Ire; First Red Cross Ombuds Promises to Strengthen "Sacred Trust" With Public.