U.S. Senate Greenlights Russ Vought, Project 2025 Architect, to Oversee National Budget

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Senate confirmed Russ Vought as the new director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) on Thursday with a narrow 53-47 vote, primarily along party lines. Vought previously held this position during President Donald Trump’s initial term and is known for his involvement in Project 2025, which aims to shift federal spending authority from Congress to the executive branch.

Democrats raised strong objections regarding Vought’s intention to enhance presidential powers over budgetary decisions. Senator Maggie Hassan of New Hampshire articulated concerns about potential violations of constitutional separation of powers. “Congress makes laws and appropriates funds, not the president,” she emphasized, citing examples of past OMB actions that she believes undermined congressional authority.

Hassan referred to events during Trump’s presidency, where the OMB faced scrutiny for freezing funds intended for various programs, including $214 million in security aid for Ukraine. “The grant money was never the president’s to cut or freeze; it belongs to the American people,” she stated, urging senators to consider the ramifications of Vought’s confirmation on self-governance.

In contrast, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., praised Vought’s qualifications, arguing that his experience enables him to tackle pressing challenges such as reducing excessive government spending and regulation. “The United States is on a dangerous spending track,” Thune remarked, expressing confidence in Vought’s ability to lead reforms aimed at curbing government waste.

Vought’s confirmation was notable as he is the 13th of Trump’s nominees to be approved by the Senate within a mere three weeks, a pace deemed remarkable compared to prior administrations. A range of appointments, including key national security and economic positions, has been expedited as the administration seeks to assemble its team promptly.

As head of the Center for Renewing America since leaving the OMB, Vought has continued to advocate for expanded presidential authority over budget appropriations. He argues that the 1974 Impoundment Control Act, originally established to prevent presidential overreach in budgeting, is outdated and unconstitutional.

During a Senate confirmation hearing, Vought reiterated his perspective on impoundment authority, which he believes is a necessary tool for the president to manage federal spending effectively. He stated, “The president has run on the issue of impoundment, reminding the country that two centuries of presidents have used this authority.” Such assertions raise alarms among Democrats who caution that this could lead to further gridlock and distrust in Congress.

Additionally, Vought contributed to the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025, a comprehensive plan designed to outline conservative strategies for a second Trump term. His section emphasizes the importance of management within the OMB, advocating for political appointees to dominate over career staff in directing the agency’s objectives.

Last updated 5:37 p.m., Feb. 6, 2025