River Bend Times

U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley of Oregon, the Ranking Member of the Senate Budget Committee, delivered a statement at a hearing for Russell Vought's nomination as Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Merkley addressed concerns about Vought's previous tenure and policies under President Trump's administration.

In his opening remarks, Merkley acknowledged Chairman Graham and welcomed new committee members. He emphasized the role of the Senate Budget Committee in policy-making under the Republican-controlled Congress, particularly concerning budget requests from the Trump administration.

Merkley expressed concern that upcoming reconciliation bills would favor wealthy individuals with significant tax breaks while burdening working-class voters. "The wealthy will get massive tax giveaways," he stated, highlighting that these benefits come at the expense of services crucial to working families.

Addressing Vought directly, Merkley questioned his past actions as Acting OMB Director. He cited a Washington Post report describing mixed results during Vought's short tenure due to ideological challenges. Merkley criticized Vought's final budget request for proposing substantial cuts to Medicaid and social safety net programs while offering over $1 trillion in tax giveaways primarily benefiting the top 10 percent.

Merkley also brought up issues related to foreign assistance withholding to Ukraine, which led to President Trump's impeachment. He found it troubling that Vought deflected responsibility onto subordinates when questioned about this matter.

Further criticism was directed at Vought's stance on abortion rights and his unfounded belief that the 2020 election was rigged. "All of this adds up to one thing: a betrayal of working families," said Merkley, urging for an OMB Director who respects law over partisanship.

Merkley's statement underscored his opposition to policies he believes undermine support for working families in favor of corporate interests and billionaires.