The Big I apologizes again for ‘unacceptable’ Jesse Watters appearance

The Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America continues to make amends for offensive comments made by Fox News personality Jesse Watters during its April legislative conference.

John Costello, chairman of the association known as The Big I, released a two-minute YouTube video today apologizing again for the incident. As The Big I did with a statement Thursday, Costello placed the blame for the incident on outgoing president and CEO Bob Rusbuldt, who was moderating an on-stage discussion with Watters.

Rusbuldt was relieved of his duties immediately following the conference, Costello said. He had planned to retire in September, after serving with the organization for 37 years.

CNN reported that Watters "made a crude attempt questioning the gender of Vice President Kamala Harris." The remark was not well received, with many attendees leaving the room, the network reported.

Like many insurance companies and trade associations, The Big I is in the midst of diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. A source said there was a DEI event later in the day. CNN reported that Rusbuldt apologized during that event, but that did little to appease attendees.

The Big I hired Convincing Company, a high-powered Washington public relations firm, to respond to media inquiries. Company co-founder Adele Cehrs, designed by The Big I to respond to additional questions on the incident, did not return email or phone messages Friday. Cehrs did not respond to new messages today.

Here are Costello's full comments:

"As chairman of the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America, known as the Big I, I would like to address some unacceptable statements that were made at our Big I legislative conference in April during an interview segment between our retiring president and CEO Bob Rusbuldt and Fox News host Jesse Watters.

"First off, we want to deeply apologize for what was said. The Big I strives to be a fair, open, and inclusive organization. On June 28th, CNN reported on the interview. The reason I am speaking to you today is that we want to clarify the Big I position regarding the statements made at the event and the subsequent article. I want to be very clear. We do not tolerate racist, sexist, or homophobic statements or behavior. Immediately following the conference, Mr. Rusbuldt was asked to relinquish all his operational duties in advance of his September retirement.

"While a difficult decision, it was necessary. It is extremely disappointing to see Mr. Rusbuldt end his 37 year career at the Big I in this way. What is much more distressing, however, is the hurt and discomfort so many of our members, partners and staff experienced as a result of his remarks. We do not in any way condone or agree with any of Mr. Rusbuldt's statements, but we must take full responsibility for them.

"We deeply regret that this incident occurred at an event intended to celebrate our organization and its membership. We are working closely with our DEI team, which includes agency, carrier and association partners. Our goal is to develop impactful ways to foster a more inclusive and respectful culture. As your chairman, I will make sure that nothing like this ever happens again."

Founded in 1896, the Big I is a federation that includes the national association and 51 independent state associations. They support nearly 25,000 independent agency locations nationwide, according to the association's website.

Charles Symington, senior vice president for external, industry and government affairs, has been named Rusbuldt's successor as CEO.

Senior Editor John Hilton covered business and other beats in more than 20 years of daily journalism. John may be reached at [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter @INNJohnH.

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InsuranceNewsNet Senior Editor John Hilton has covered business and other beats in more than 20 years of daily journalism. John may be reached at [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter @INNJohnH.