Dems slam Trump admins over alleged $436B spending block
Top Democrats have accused the Trump administration of withholding over $436 billion in congressionally approved funds, spanning multiple federal agencies, thus violating constitutional spending powers. This withholding of funds, described as impoundments, was highlighted by Senator Patty Murray and Representative Rosa DeLauro to coincide with the administration's 100 days in office. The funds frozen include substantial amounts for the State Department, USAID, and the Transportation Department, among others. Democrats argue that this move not only ignores constitutional mandates but also deprives Americans of crucial investments and safety grants, while the administration seeks massive tax cuts for billionaires. The administration has not submitted formal rescission requests as required, leading to criticisms of a lack of transparency and accountability in handling spending laws.
Senator Patty Murray and Representative Rosa DeLauro released figures indicating the Trump administration is withholding over $436 billion in congressionally approved funds, marking a significant budgetary dispute.
The frozen funds affect multiple federal agencies, including the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Transportation Department, with $42 billion frozen for the State Department and $62 billion for competitive grant funding.
The Democrats accuse the administration of violating constitutional spending rules by not spending authorized funds, which challenges Congress's oversight role.
Despite the Trump administration's campaign promises to reduce government waste, the withholding of funds is seen as denying Americans investments they are legally owed, while significant tax breaks for billionaires are pursued.
A public tracker was released to keep Americans informed about the frozen funds, and the administration has been criticized for failing to provide transparency and not adhering to the Impoundment Control Act of 1974.
Democrats argue that the refusal to allocate these funds compromises public safety and national security, as the funds were intended for critical investments and grants.
The head of the Department of Government Efficiency, Elon Musk, alongside President Trump, has been criticized for not addressing waste, fraud, and corruption in the federal government effectively, as promised.