Donald Trump can reshape census bureau after director’s sudden resignation

Robert Santos, who prioritized inclusivity and outreach to underserved communities during his tenure, has decided to resign as director of the U.S. Census Bureau. This decision comes halfway through his five-year term and amid preparations for the 2030 census, which will influence political representation and federal funding for the next decade.

Santos, appointed by former Democratic President Joe Biden, announced his resignation in a letter on Thursday evening, citing “deep reflection” as his reason. Santos, who became the bureau’s 26th director and its first Hispanic leader in 2022, will leave his post, opening the door for Republican President Donald Trump to appoint new leadership.

This change comes as Trump’s allies in Congress and GOP state attorneys general intensify efforts to exclude undocumented immigrants from the census data used to allocate congressional seats and Electoral College votes among states.

More to follow.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.