Russ Vought has been confirmed as director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) after Senate Democrats attempted to block the nomination with a 30-hour filibuster. The final vote was 53-47, with all Republicans supporting Vought and every Democrat voting against him.
Vought, who previously led OMB under President Donald Trump, is expected to implement sweeping changes aimed at cutting federal spending and increasing executive power over government agencies. His confirmation marks a major loss for the entrenched bureaucrats who have long resisted efforts to limit their influence.
Democrats, led by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), claimed that Vought’s policies would weaken federal agencies and disrupt government operations. Schumer called him “the most radical nominee” for OMB, warning that his leadership would be disastrous for Washington. Despite their efforts, Republicans stood united, pushing Vought’s nomination through.
One of the most controversial issues raised during the confirmation process was Vought’s backing of Schedule F, a classification that allows the president to remove career bureaucrats who shape policy. Democrats fear this change will make it easier for the Trump administration to remove employees who oppose conservative policies.
Vought has also been a vocal critic of the Impoundment Control Act of 1974, which prevents federal agencies from returning unspent money to taxpayers. He argues that the law forces wasteful spending and strips power from the executive branch. Democrats strongly oppose any attempt to overturn the law, seeing it as a way to maintain control over the budget.
With Vought’s confirmation secured, the Senate is now moving forward with additional Trump nominees. Votes are expected soon on Tulsi Gabbard for director of national intelligence and Robert F. Kennedy for Health and Human Services secretary. Meanwhile, Democrats have delayed a vote on Kash Patel for FBI director.
