Senate Majority Leader John Thune recently defended President Donald Trump's management of USAID, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the agency is operating efficiently. Thune refrained from explicitly stating whether Trump possesses the authority to close USAID without congressional approval, highlighting ongoing concerns regarding transparency and accountability in the agency's spending practices.
Thune referenced Senator Marco Rubio's efforts to obtain information on USAID's financial allocations, suggesting that the administration has the right to scrutinize how funds are being utilized. This stance underscores the broader debate surrounding executive powers in overseeing federal agencies.
Additionally, Thune disclosed that discussions are underway within the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) and Finance committees regarding the confirmation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as the head of the Department of Health and Human Services. He noted that the focus primarily lies within the finance committee, where the final vote on Kennedy's nomination will take place.
When questioned about the prospects of Tulsi Gabbard, Trump's nominee for National Intelligence Director, advancing through the Senate Intelligence Committee, Thune opted not to provide a direct response and proceeded to his office. This development hints at the complexities surrounding key appointments and the varying levels of support within congressional committees.
