Senate committee opens hearing on three Trump nominees for economic, credit-union and HUD oversight posts

The chair opened a Senate committee hearing on nominations for three senior federal posts, saying the selections will affect families’ costs, taxpayers’ accountability and the strength of the economy. The nominees introduced for consideration were Dr. Feelin for chair of the Council of Economic Advisers, Mr. Cruz for the National Credit Union Administration and Mr. Ledbetter for inspector general at the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The chair said the hearing’s purpose was “getting qualified leaders in place” so the administration’s agenda can move forward and agencies can focus on serving the public. The chair emphasized that economic leadership affects costs, wages, investment and opportunity for families and that nominees should be judged on their qualifications and experience rather than who nominated them.

On Dr. Feelin, described by the chair as the nominee to chair the Council of Economic Advisers, the committee was told the role comes at a key time as families remain concerned about affordability. The chair asked how Dr. Feelin’s decades of experience and judgment would help advance policies to strengthen the economy and make life more affordable.

Regarding Mr. Cruz, the nominee to head the National Credit Union Administration, the chair framed the position as important to preserving a strong, competitive credit union system that increases access to affordable financial services. The chair said the NCUA needs leadership that understands both safety and soundness and the effect of regulatory burdens on costs and access.

The chair introduced Mr. Ledbetter as the nominee for HUD inspector general, saying housing affordability is a major challenge and that taxpayers deserve oversight to ensure funds reach intended recipients. The chair noted Mr. Ledbetter’s 30 years in federal and military law enforcement and asked how he would use that experience, if confirmed, to protect taxpayer dollars and root out waste.

The committee’s opening remarks closed with a call for colleagues to assess nominees on qualifications and commitment to public service. The chair then recognized Senator Warren to begin questioning.

The hearing proceeded to member questioning following the opening statements; no formal motions or votes were recorded in the provided transcript excerpt.