River Bend Times

U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley, the Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Budget Committee, has expressed his opposition to Dan Bishop's nomination as Deputy Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). The statement was made during an executive session where Merkley and all Democratic members voted against Bishop.

Merkley's remarks highlighted concerns about OMB's actions since President Trump assumed office. He stated that the agency has been involved in decisions that "radically change the federal government," including "illegally impounding funds" and "firing federal employees." According to Merkley, these actions have been ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court on two occasions.

During questioning, Senator Kennedy asked Bishop if he would adhere to legal standards, to which Bishop replied affirmatively: “Absolutely, absolutely.” However, when questioned by Senator Murray about compliance with the Impoundment Control Act, Bishop indicated alignment with Director Vought’s perspective that “impoundment is within the power of the president,” a stance Merkley finds troubling.

Merkley emphasized that "the law is not a suggestion" and stressed that government officials are bound by their oath to uphold the Constitution rather than allegiance to any individual leaders. He urged his colleagues on the committee to reject Bishop's nomination based on these concerns.