Russell Vought confirmed to head government’s leading budget office after Dems hold 30-hour protest
The Senate has confirmed Russell Vought as the new leader of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) despite Democratic efforts to delay the confirmation vote. Republicans supported Vought’s nomination, citing his previous experience in the role during President Donald Trump’s first term as proof of his qualifications. However, Democrats raised concerns about Vought’s views on the Impoundment Control Act, which they believe disqualifies him from the position.
During a 30-hour-long protest against Vought’s nomination, Democratic Senators delivered speeches in an attempt to stall the confirmation vote. The chaotic final floor vote on Thursday evening ultimately resulted in Vought being confirmed to lead the OMB. The Office of Management and Budget is responsible for developing and executing the president’s budget, as well as overseeing legislative proposals and priorities aligned with the executive branch.
Vought faced scrutiny during his confirmation hearings for his belief that the Impoundment Control Act is unconstitutional. This law, adopted in 1974, gives Congress oversight over the executive branch’s withholding of budget authority. Democrats criticized Vought for freezing military aid for Ukraine in 2019, a decision that led to Trump’s first impeachment.
In addition to his views on budget authority, Vought also faced questions about his stance on social issues, particularly his involvement in Project 2025, a conservative initiative that called for policy changes including a national ban on medication abortion. Democrats pressed Vought on his opposition to exceptions for rape, incest, and the life of the mother in abortion cases, to which Vought responded that he was there on behalf of the president and would uphold Trump’s policies.
Despite the controversy surrounding his nomination, Vought assured lawmakers that he would uphold the law and carry out the president’s policies. His confirmation as the head of the OMB has sparked debate over the role of the executive branch in budget decisions and the importance of adhering to established laws.
