Warren raises concerns over Trump's agency nominees before committee vote

U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren has released the responses of President Donald Trump’s nominees to her Questions for the Record (QFRs) ahead of their confirmation hearings. The Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee is set to vote on these nominations today, despite pending FBI background investigations for two nominees: Jonathan McKernan for CFPB Director and Jeffrey Kessler for Undersecretary for Industry and Security at the Department of Commerce.

Senator Warren also addressed Federal Housing Finance Agency Director nominee Bill Pulte, urging him to provide 25,000 deleted posts from X that he removed between November 5 and March 4. Warren emphasized that "the Senate has a constitutional duty of providing advice and consent on your nomination."

Regarding Jeffrey Kessler, nominee for Under Secretary for Industry and Security, Senator Warren's questions revolved around export controls and national security policies. While Mr. Kessler agreed on using export controls to prevent adversaries from accessing advanced technologies, his responses were criticized as vague regarding implementation plans.

For Dr. Stephen Miran, nominated as Chair of the Council of Economic Advisers (CEA), Warren inquired about his positions on economic issues such as lowering costs and tax cuts. Dr. Miran did not directly answer questions related to Project 2025 proposals or tax cuts but indicated support for tax breaks for billionaires and trade wars with allies.

Jonathan McKernan faced questions about his ability to lead the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). His responses reportedly lacked substance beyond stating legal obligations. During McKernan’s hearing, Warren highlighted concerns over CFPB dropping enforcement cases against corporations accused of consumer fraud.

Bill Pulte's nomination as FHFA Director was questioned concerning Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac's future amid privatization efforts. Pulte did not adequately address potential conflicts involving hedge funds or wealthy investors in decision-making processes related to reprivatization.

The Committee will proceed with voting despite these concerns raised by Senator Warren.