From California Post · · 1m 10s
California High-Speed Rail CEO Resigns Amid Scandals
California's bullet train project CEO quits after $592,900 in unallowable consultant expenses.
In brief
California's bullet train project CEO quits after $592,900 in unallowable consultant expenses. California High-Speed Rail Authority CEO Ian Choudri resigned to focus on personal priorities after the agency paid $592,900 in unallowable consultant expenses. Originally reported by California Post.
California High-Speed Rail CEO Resigns
Ian Choudri resigned as chief executive of the California High-Speed Rail Authority after a scandal involving unallowable consultant expenses.
“The boss of California’s doomed $231 billion bullet train project has thrown in the towel.”
Unallowable Expenses Reported
The rail authority paid $592,900 in unallowable expenses including rideshare trips to Tiki bars and an escape room.
“In another wacky turn, Choudri’s rail authority paid out $592,900 in "unallowable" expenses incurred by consultants, including rideshare trips to Tiki bars and an "escape room" and first-class flight upgrades, according to a bombshell Inspector General audit.”
Domestic Violence Allegations
Choudri took a leave of absence in February after allegedly intervening in a domestic dispute between his wife and daughter.
“Choudri took a leave of absence in February after he allegedly intervened in a domestic dispute between his wife and his daughter.”
Resignation Reason
Choudri stated he is resigning to focus on "important personal and family priorities."
“The rail authority’s chief said he is resigning to focus on "important personal and family priorities."”
Financial Scandals
The rail authority faced disciplinary action including possible termination for misspent money and a $25,000 bonus consideration.
“Officials with the board overseeing the project had been set to discuss whether Choudri qualified for a potential $25,000 bonus based on his performance this year.”
Political Reactions
Governor Gavin Newsom's office and California's next governor candidate Xavier Becerra both criticized Choudri's leadership.
“The politician favored to be California’s next governor, Democrat Xavier Becerra, said he would have canned Choudri if he were elected.”
Project Status
The project is set to run out of money in 2027 without laying a single track and faces a $231 billion cost.
“Currently, the project is set to run out of money in 2027 without ever having laid a single piece of track.”
The one thing
California High-Speed Rail Authority CEO Ian Choudri resigned to focus on personal priorities after the agency paid $592,900 in unallowable consultant expenses.
