Robert Storch was sworn in as Delaware’s first Inspector General by Governor Matt Meyer at Legislative Hall on May 8, following his confirmation by the Delaware State Senate.
The establishment of the Office of the Inspector General is seen as an important step toward strengthening public confidence in state government. The new office is intended to provide independent oversight and address gaps not covered by existing agencies such as the state auditor and attorney general.
Storch previously served as Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Defense, overseeing a global workforce reviewing defense programs and personnel. He was also the first Inspector General for the National Security Agency and currently lectures at Columbia Law School on topics related to government oversight.
Senate Republican Whip Brian Pettyjohn, one of the sponsors of Senate Bill 4 which created the office, said: “Creating an independent Office of the Inspector General was about restoring and strengthening public confidence in government, and that mission begins with selecting the right person to lead it. Robert Storch’s extensive background in oversight, accountability, and public integrity makes him exceptionally qualified to serve as Delaware’s first Inspector General.”
State House Republicans Rep. Tim Dukes and Rep. Lyndon Yearick were among those who co-sponsored the bill. State Representative Jeff Hilovsky served on the selection panel that recommended Storch for nomination.
Delaware joins at least eleven other states with a statewide inspector general position; more than twice that number have inspectors general within specific state agencies.
