During a recent hearing, President Donald Trump's nominee for the Office of Management and Budget, Russell Vought, faced questions regarding the release of remaining funds approved for Ukraine. Vought, who previously held the position during the first Trump administration, declined to commit to releasing the billions of dollars in approved Ukraine aid, citing the need to align with the incoming president's foreign policy intentions.
His response hinted at the possibility of utilizing impoundment, a practice where the president chooses not to spend money allocated by Congress. With over $3 billion in Ukraine aid awaiting allocation, the decision will ultimately rest with the incoming administration.
President Trump has expressed a desire to reduce the size of the federal government, a stance that may lead to clashes with both Democrats and some Republicans who emphasize Congress's authority over budgetary matters. While laws like the Impoundment Control Act of 1974 aim to limit impoundment, Vought suggested during the hearing that the law might be unconstitutional.
He emphasized the historical precedent of presidents utilizing impoundment and indicated that the administration would formulate its approach to the issue once in office. These statements drew criticism from Democrats, with Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut expressing concern over the nominee's apparent stance on presidential authority.
