Is Congress LOSING CONTROL Over Budgets?

The Trump administration is preparing to test executive power by withholding or delaying congressionally approved funds under the 1974 Impoundment Control Act, potentially setting up a major constitutional showdown.

At a Glance

• Trump administration is exploring delaying or rescinding congressionally appropriated funds.
• Agencies including NIH and NSF face potential funding freezes.
• Government Accountability Office (GAO) warns of possible legal violations.
• More than 30 investigations into budget disruptions are currently underway.
• House Republicans seek to curb GAO’s oversight powers in response.

Unprecedented Executive Action

President Trump’s administration is planning to challenge congressional spending authority by invoking the Impoundment Control Act of 1974, potentially withholding or delaying billions in funds that Congress has already allocated. According to the Washington Post, the Office of Management and Budget, led by budget director Russell Vought, is preparing what could become one of the largest tests of presidential budgetary power in recent history.

Already, key research and public health agencies, including the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Science Foundation (NSF), have faced significant disruptions due to delayed or frozen funding. These moves have sparked concern among scientists and policymakers, who warn critical research and health programs are at risk.

Watch a report: Trump Administration Tests Budgetary Powers.

Looming Constitutional Conflict

The Government Accountability Office (GAO), responsible for ensuring compliance with federal budget laws, has raised alarms over these unprecedented steps. More than 30 investigations are already underway, including multiple lawsuits filed by states and watchdog groups challenging the legality of withholding appropriated funds.

Legal experts warn this tactic could trigger a constitutional crisis by testing the boundaries between executive and legislative power. If unresolved, the issue may escalate to the Supreme Court, setting a significant legal precedent for future administrations.

Congressional Response and Broader Implications

In response to GAO’s heightened scrutiny, congressional Republicans have proposed legislation to reduce GAO’s budget, effectively limiting its oversight capabilities. Critics argue this move would further weaken Congress’s ability to enforce spending laws, tipping the balance of power further toward the executive branch.

These funding conflicts occur amid ongoing negotiations over President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill,” a broader legislative effort tied to debt ceiling and budget reconciliation debates. Tensions around spending and executive authority are already high, with this latest action potentially igniting an unprecedented political and constitutional standoff in Washington.