Director of the Office of Management and Budget
Russ Vought’s time as the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is the subject of several investigations and criticisms, primarily related to his actions during the Trump administration, including alleged obstruction and weaponizing the budget for political purposes. An investigation has looked into whether Vought obstructed Congress, particularly in the context of the impeachment inquiry into President Trump, which involved a subpoena for him to appear before investigators. Furthermore, critics have accused Vought of using his authority to cancel or freeze federal funding for certain projects and programs, such as energy initiatives in “blue states,” arguing these actions were politically motivated and harmful to the public interest.
- Allegations of obstruction: Vought was subpoenaed by House investigators during the impeachment inquiry into President Trump and faced accusations of obstructing Congress by refusing to cooperate or provide information.
- Weaponizing the budget: Critics claim Vought used the OMB to pursue political agendas, such as freezing or canceling billions in infrastructure and energy projects, particularly in states with Democratic leadership.
- Disregard for Congress: Several lawmakers accused Vought of ignoring requests for information and disregarding laws and congressional directives, leading to accusations of contempt of Congress.
- Funding cuts: Vought has been criticized for implementing budget cuts to programs like the NIH, which affected research on various diseases, and for other actions like canceling funding for state and local law enforcement efforts.
- Project 2025: Vought’s involvement in Project 2025, a plan for a potential second Trump term, has also come under scrutiny, with concerns that it outlines a plan to expand presidential power and dismantle federal institutions.