1. United States
2. Mo.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my outrage over yet another example of this administration’s disregard for transparency, accountability, and Congress’s constitutional responsibility to oversee the executive branch. A recent Government Accountability Office report found that investigators were unable to determine the full size and structure of the Department of Government Efficiency because numerous agencies failed to provide requested information. The report identified at least 206 DOGE employees serving in the Executive Office of the President, but investigators could not determine the appointment status of more than 150 of those individuals because agencies refused to cooperate. The GAO also could not verify whether many DOGE personnel completed required ethics training or financial disclosure requirements because records were withheld. Congress created the Government Accountability Office to conduct independent oversight on behalf of the American people. When executive branch agencies refuse to provide information to Congress’s own watchdog, they undermine our system of checks and balances. Russell Vought has repeatedly advocated for expanding presidential power while diminishing the role of Congress. This latest report reflects that philosophy in action. Transparency is replaced with secrecy. Oversight is treated as an inconvenience instead of a constitutional obligation. Accountability disappears. If this administration believes its actions are lawful and ethical, it should welcome independent oversight instead of obstructing it. The American people deserve to know who is exercising authority within the federal government, whether those individuals have complied with ethics requirements, and whether taxpayer dollars are being managed responsibly. These are fundamental principles of good government. I ask you to publicly condemn Russell Vought’s continued efforts to weaken congressional oversight and centralize power within the executive branch. I also urge you to demand full cooperation with the Government Accountability Office and insist that agencies provide every document and record requested by Congress’s independent watchdog. No administration, Republican or Democratic, should be permitted to shield itself from scrutiny or deny Congress the information it needs to fulfill its constitutional responsibilities. Our democracy depends on transparency, accountability, and respect for the separation of powers. This administration has repeatedly demonstrated contempt for those principles, and Congress cannot continue to look the other way. I urge you to defend the Constitution, protect Congress’s oversight authority, and hold Russell Vought and this administration accountable for their continued erosion of transparency and the rule of law. Thank you for your time and consideration.