Senate confirmation hearings for several Cabinet nominees associated with Donald Trump are taking place this week. Many of the candidates are quickly garnering support for their appointments, but some still face scrutiny from oversight committees responsible for the departments they are set to lead.
The confirmation hearing for Scott Bessent, nominated for Treasury Secretary, has concluded. During the hearing, the Chair of the Senate Finance Committee, Mike Crapo, expressed his intention to push for Bessent’s nomination. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse raised concerns regarding Bessent’s personal taxes and potential conflicts of interest. Bessent assured the committee that he is current with his taxes and mentioned he would close his firm if confirmed to eliminate any conflict of interest. He expressed his backing for Trump’s pledge to exempt tips and Social Security from taxation and endorsed the idea of reinstating tax-deductible auto loans.
When questioned by Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren about the removal of the statutory debt limit, Bessent indicated he would collaborate with Trump if that is the direction the administration chooses, affirming that he would ensure the U.S. does not default on its debt.
Zeldin, another nominee, remained vague about his policies during his hearing. He committed to adhering to the law without prejudging outcomes. When Republican Senator Pete Ricketts inquired about possibly reversing programs that encourage electric vehicle use, Zeldin acknowledged concerns but provided little detail. The Biden administration’s implementation of stricter emissions standards for vehicles is anticipated to be rolled back under Trump’s administration, despite Trump’s mischaracterization of these regulations.
While addressing central bank digital currencies, Bessent dismissed the need for a U.S. CBDC, arguing that such measures are typically adopted by nations with fewer options. At one point, Bessent’s sexual orientation was mentioned when he expressed that his journey to attend the U.S. Naval Academy was hindered by his sexual preference at 17. He emphasized that he was selected by Trump based on qualifications, not personal identity, and noted that if confirmed, he would be the first openly gay Treasury Secretary.
In the hearing for HUD Secretary, Scott Turner faced inquiries about homelessness, housing affordability, and reforming HUD’s subsidy programs. While Turner received questions regarding his stance on the expansion of Section 8 vouchers, he did not promise an increase, which has been a significant goal for Democrats. Republicans focused more on how Turner could ease regulations to boost housing development, while also inquiring about previous initiatives aimed at combating housing discrimination.
Doug Burgum, nominated for interior secretary, addressed questions concerning oil and gas leases on federal lands. He stated a preference for existing leases over opening new areas for development and emphasized the importance of targeting resources with minimal impact on vital land. Moreover, he spoke about the contentious national monument alterations instigated under the Antiquities Act and presented his perspective on properly utilizing public lands for various economic benefits.
Bessent was also pressed about potential Medicaid cuts and his general approach to welfare programs. He indicated that his focus would lean towards empowering states regarding Medicaid, but refrained from committing to significant cuts. When Democratic Senator Bernie Sanders questioned him about wealth inequality and the emergence of an oligarchy, Bessent noted that wealth was generated by those individuals themselves, referencing President Biden’s decision to award prominent figures he considers in the oligarchy.
The hearings further addressed pressing issues like immigration’s effect on housing affordability, with Turner acknowledging that illegal immigration places a considerable burden on HUD, especially concerning homelessness. In response to questions about renewable energy, Burgum did not provide assurance that he would advocate for wind power development to the administration, as Trump has pledged to dismantle aspects of the offshore wind industry along with promoting oil and gas drilling.
Bessent criticized the Biden administration’s sanctions on Russia, articulating that they lacked sufficient strength, especially in light of the current crisis in Ukraine. He maintained that funding for Social Security and Medicare would remain untouched, emphasizing the need for effective budgetary practices.
As questions about climate change emerged in Zeldin’s hearing, he answered that he did not profess to be a climate scientist but recognized the implications of carbon dioxide emissions. His commitment to clean water and air remains vague, reflecting Trump’s skepticism of climate science. The hearings reflect a broad spectrum of perspectives as nominees like Bessent, Zeldin, Turner, and Burgum navigate the complexities of their impending roles in Trump’s administration.
Scott Turner’s background as an NFL player was highlighted during his confirmation hearing before the Senate Banking Committee, as he aims to lead HUD and address significant housing challenges. The confirmation hearings continue with a thorough examination of each nominee’s policies and qualifications.
