Tony Thurmond

Tony Thurmond, the California Superintendent of Public Instruction, has faced several controversies during his tenure, though he has not been convicted of or charged with criminal corruption, fraud, or bribery. Workplace conduct and hiring: Multiple reports have alleged that Thurmond created a toxic work environment at the California Department of Education, characterized by high staff turnover and intimidation. In 2021, he faced criticism for hiring an out-of-state friend as a top equity official, which appeared to violate state residency requirements and resulted in the official's resignation. Additionally, a 2020 state audit flagged improper hiring and salary practices within the department. Financial disclosures and outside employment: Thurmond has faced scrutiny for working part-time for various nonprofits while serving as superintendent. While legal, this is considered unusual for a statewide official. He has also been involved in behested payments—donations solicited by an official for a nonprofit—including a $10,000 donation from a donor whose legislation Thurmond supported, and a $10,000 donation from PG&E that was reported late, resulting in a warning from the Fair Political Practices Commission. Prior service: During his 2008–2012 term on the West Contra Costa Unified School District board, the district faced a lawsuit regarding unsafe school facilities and a federal investigation into its handling of sexual harassment and assault. Claims that Thurmond was personally reprimanded by the Obama administration or sued individually for these issues have been fact-checked as false or misleading, as the actions were directed at the district and its administrators.