Leader Schumer Statement Following Meeting With Trump’s Nominee For OMB Director, Russell Vought

Washington, D.C. – Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) today released the following statement after meeting with Russell Vought, President Trump’s nominee for Director of the Office of Management and Budget:

“I can think of very few people that would have a more direct and debilitating impact on the lives of American families than Russell Vought. His record was troubling before I met with him, and he did nothing to dispel my deep concerns. In fact, when I asked him what part of Project 2025 he would disagree with, he couldn’t point to one.

“The Director of the Office of Management and Budget holds one of the most critical positions in the federal government. This role affects every federal agency, every local economy, town, city, and American family. It is a responsibility that demands someone who understands the needs of working families, fosters opportunity, and protects programs essential to the well-being of millions of Americans.

“Mr. Vought, as the chief architect of Project 2025, has made it his mission to dismantle the very fabric of our social safety net—vowing to eliminate the Department of Education, cut SNAP, slash Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and raise drug prices—all in the name of an ideological agenda that benefits the wealthy few at the expense of the middle class. His vision isn’t just reckless; it is downright catastrophic to the economic security of American families.

“Mr. Vought stands in direct opposition to everything Senate Democrats are fighting for—lower costs, good-paying jobs, and improvement of the lives of everyday Americans. His history and policies make it clear he would prioritize partisan warfare over responsible governance, undermining critical programs that support millions of our citizens.

“My North Star, always, is to ease the burdens on American families. Given Mr. Vought’s track record, I cannot, in good conscience, support his nomination. I will vote against him, and I will do so proudly.”

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