Reject Vought nomination to protect congressional oversight of spending

Russell Vought's evasive responses regarding impoundment, the illegal withholding of congressionally approved funds, are deeply concerning for someone nominated to lead the Office of Management and Budget. His refusal to commit to following the Impoundment Control Act of 1974 raises serious doubts about his willingness to uphold the constitutional separation of powers between the executive and legislative branches. The recent order to pause federal grants and loans pending a review aligned with the administration's policy positions appears to be impoundment by another name. Confirming a director who will not respect Congress's power of the purse would undermine our democratic system of checks and balances. When Mr. Vought's nomination comes before the full Senate, I urge you to reject his confirmation to protect the integrity of the budget process and OMB's role as an honest broker between the White House and Capitol Hill. Defending Congress's constitutional prerogatives on spending matters is essential to maintaining our republican form of government.