My personal take? Running a giant grid like OSgrid requires the technical skills of a genius, the smooth-talking abilities of Bill Clinton, the peace-making skills of Jimmy Carter and a giant set of... feet. Big feet, yes. James may have the first and the last, but he can't be expected to be a seasoned politician and peace-maker the first day on the job.
I have no personal opinion on his policies. If they work, we'll look back and say that he did the right thing in the face of opposition. If they don't, some new policies will replace them. OSgrid will survive either way.
So far, there seem to be no substantive changes to the way the grid is organized, or the function it plays in the OpenSim community and testing and development process.
I recommend that people who are upset wait a couple of months for the emotions to cool down, then reassess.