Overview

• Russell Vought told CNN he will deploy executive tools instead of full congressional approval for most Department of Government Efficiency cuts.
• Of the $175 billion in workforce and agency reductions initiated under Elon Musk, only $9.4 billion is being officially submitted to Congress.
• Vought plans to invoke impoundment authority to withhold funds already allocated by lawmakers for targeted programs.
• Early submissions focus on deep cuts at USAID and public broadcasting, prompting bipartisan scrutiny and lawsuits.
• As a Project2025 architect, Vought seeks to consolidate presidential power by reducing legislative checks on federal workforce reforms.