Senate Holds Steward Health CEO in Contempt

The U.S. Senate has unanimously approved a resolution to hold Ralph de la Torre, CEO of Steward Health Care, in criminal contempt for failing to comply with a congressional subpoena. De la Torre was supposed to testify regarding allegations of financial mismanagement and its impact on patient care, including the deaths of at least 15 patients due to inadequate medical resources. Senator Bernie Sanders emphasized the importance of accountability, stating that no individual is above the law, regardless of their wealth or status. The matter will be referred to the U.S. attorney for potential criminal prosecution. Senators highlighted severe implications of Steward's mismanagement, affecting over 30 hospitals across eight states, and raised concerns over de la Torre receiving substantial compensation amid these issues. This action marks a significant legislative move, the first of its kind in over half a century.