Sen. Joni Ernst Demands $2T in Federal Cuts
Sen. Joni Ernst (R‑Iowa) sent a letter to OMB Director Russell Vought during the unfolding federal government shutdown demanding more than $2 trillion in cuts to what she calls nonessential federal spending. Ernst’s letter — obtained by Fox News Digital — lists targets including unused COVID funding, unspent federal slush funds, portions of clean‑energy and EV programs, certain rail projects and niche research grants, and urges OMB to implement clawbacks and consolidations to 'make Washington squeal.' The proposal is presented amid OMB withholding actions and stalled Senate negotiations to reopen the government.
Politics
Economy
🔍 Key Facts
- Sen. Joni Ernst sent a letter to OMB Director Russell Vought calling for over $2 trillion in 'nonessential' federal spending cuts.
- The letter cites targets such as expired and unexpired COVID‑19 funds, roughly $1.6 trillion in 'unspent' funding alleged to be in 'secret slush funds,' portions of EV charging and railroad projects, and certain federal research programs.
- Context: the demand comes during an active federal government shutdown (third day at time of reporting) and follows OMB announcements to withhold nearly $30 billion in funding to select states and localities.
📍 Contextual Background
- Russell Vought served as the Director (chief) of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).
- OMB is the abbreviation for the Office of Management and Budget, an office within the executive branch of the United States federal government responsible for assisting the President in preparing the federal budget and supervising its administration in executive agencies.