Washington Examiner by Paul Bedard 4/20/2022
“The news that he was being replaced came as a shock to most of us within the agency,” one ATF official told the Reload, a Second Amendment news site.
“Refusing to consider an accomplished black agent like Richardson for the permanent position may lead to further controversy around Biden’s nomination of Steve Dettelbach,” reported Reload Editor Stephen Gutowski, who is known for his contacts at the agency, which formulates and enforces gun laws.
Richardson had a base of support in the agency for the top job because of his law enforcement experience, years as a manager of the 5,000-employee agency, and balanced relationships with the gun industry.
What’s more, some thought he was an easy pick because he is black, and Biden has put a premium on minorities throughout his government — though apparently not at ATF.
Two other top leaders at ATF are also planning to leave the agency soon.
More:
https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/washington-secrets/atf-in-turmoil-black-no-2-demoted-after-biden-pushes-second-white-for-top-job
