Call for Resignation of High-Speed Rail CEO
Lawmakers from the Central Valley are pushing for the resignation of California High Speed Rail CEO Ian Choudhury following his recent domestic violence arrest and an ongoing dispute regarding conflicts of interest related to the rail project. In a letter addressed to Governor Gavin Newsom, they described Choudhury’s continued leadership as an “insult” to taxpayers.
Representative Alexandra Macedo, who represents parts of the San Joaquin Valley, stated, “Given his arrest and the allegations against him, Mr. Chaudhry’s ongoing position would significantly undermine public trust in government.”
Chaudhury has been on leave since last week after it came to light that he was arrested in connection with a domestic violence incident involving his fiancée and their teenage daughter. This incident occurred shortly after he participated in a press conference with Newsom, where they discussed the completion of a new 150-acre construction facility meant to expedite the project.
In her letter dated February 25, Macedo remarked, “The recent arrest of your chosen CEO, Ian Chaudhry, on charges of domestic violence, along with allegations of child abuse and concerning details regarding his fiancée’s financial ties with a major contractor, makes his continued leadership untenable and is an affront to taxpayers in the Central Valley and throughout California.”
Citing the February 4 incident at his home in Folsom, it’s important to note that Chaudhury has not been officially charged with any crime. Reports suggest that he attempted to mediate a dispute between his fiancée, Lyudmila “Mila” Staroshuk, and their daughter. A neighbor reported seeing the trio in a disagreement on their front lawn, prompting them to notify the authorities. Chaudhury was subsequently arrested on suspicion of domestic assault.
Governor Newsom acknowledged during a recent conference that Choudhury is under investigation—not just for the incident on February 4, but also for potential conflicts associated with Staroshuk’s employment. Staroshuk was recently hired by KPMG, an accounting firm that holds a $24 million contract with the High-Speed Rail project, as indicated on her LinkedIn profile.
During a transit news conference in the Bay Area, Newsom assured that the board aims to comprehensively investigate the issues that have emerged, as well as broader concerns. Choudhury’s attorney explained that Staroshuk’s position is not linked to the rail project, claiming her work pertains to a different sector entirely.
In summary, the situation surrounding Choudhury raises significant questions regarding leadership accountability and public trust as the High-Speed Rail project continues to face scrutiny.
