Big ‘I’ weathers glare from unsavory conference event
CNN caught wind of a guest speaker’s insensitive public remarks, spurring the organization to issue a public apology.
Members and leaders of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big “I”) had high hopes for an appearance by FOX News personality Jesse Watters during the organization’s 2023 Legislative Conference at the Renaissance Washington, D.C. Downtown Hotel in late April.
“Jesse will offer unique insights and perspectives from his experiences in the newsroom over the past nearly two decades, from his man-on-the-street interviews to his discussions with the most prominent newsmakers,” former Big I President & CEO Bob Rusbuldt said in advance of the event, where Rusbuldt and Watters convened on stage to chat.
Those gathered for the presentation reportedly buzzed with enthusiasm — until a cringe-worthy remark by Watters questioning the gender of Vice President Kamala Harris torpedoed the tone of the gathering, which was following by a diversity and inclusion-themed luncheon.
According to a characterization of what followed that was reported by CNN: “A wave of awkwardness washed over the audience. [Some people] walked out of the room and conveyed to the trade association that they were appalled at the behavior exhibited by Watters.”
Rusbuldt, who was already set to retire this year, reportedly apologized to his constituents that day. But his efforts failed to quell the crowd.
Now, the Big “I” has issued a formal apology for the interview segment. The organization said in a statement released June 29, 2023:
“The Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America (The Big “I”) would like to sincerely apologize for an unfortunate interview segment that was conducted at the Big “I” Legislative Conference between president & CEO Bob Rusbuldt and Fox News host Jesse Watters in April of 2023.”
“The Big ‘I’ strives to be a fair, open, and inclusive organization and we do not condone racist, sexist, or homophobic statements or behavior. In response to this incident, we had Mr. Rusbuldt relinquish his operational duties immediately following the Legislative Conference and in advance of his retirement in September. It is disappointing to see Mr. Rusbuldt end his 37-year career at the Big ‘I’ in this way.”
“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 that is intended to celebrate our organization and its membership. We have been working with our DEI team internally and externally since the event on ways to foster a more inclusive and respectful culture and ensure that nothing like this ever happens again.”
Watters, a prime-time television-show host, author and well-known conservative pundit, is notorious for stirring up controversy through such actions as following and ambushing a journalist who was critical of his political stance, making remarks about Asian Americans that many labelled as racist, making false claims about Democratic leaders, lewd remarks about women, and praising the radical-conservative theorists behind QAnon.
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