I think we are in uncharted territory here. It’s true that Congress has the power of the purse. But Trump’s pick for Office of Management and Budget Director (Russell Vought) supports impoundment—unilateral action taken by the exectuve branch to delay or cancel appropriations enacted into law.
When asked about Trump’s funding freeze the other day, Rep. Tom Cole, Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, said “Appropriations is not a law, it’s the directive of Congress.”
Some Republican members of Congress may not push back on illegal actions without pressure from their constituents.
I think we are in uncharted territory here. It’s true that Congress has the power of the purse. But Trump’s pick for Office of Management and Budget Director (Russell Vought) supports impoundment—unilateral action taken by the exectuve branch to delay or cancel appropriations enacted into law.
When asked about Trump’s funding freeze the other day, Rep. Tom Cole, Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, said “Appropriations is not a law, it’s the directive of Congress.”
Some Republican members of Congress may not push back on illegal actions without pressure from their constituents.