Sen. Susan Collins Faces Criticism Over Lack of Oversight on White House Actions
The current chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Maine Sen. Susan Collins, has remained silent regarding the White House’s recent actions involving Iran and potential mismanagement of federal funds. Despite being in a critical position to oversee these issues, Collins has not advocated for an investigation.
As the Republican leader of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Collins holds significant power over federal budgeting. This committee plays a vital role in ensuring that the executive branch adheres to budgets approved by Congress. If discrepancies arise, the committee is tasked with investigating and potentially adjusting future funding to maintain control, a concept known as Congress’ “power of the purse.”
Collins assumed her role as the committee chair in January 2025. Shortly thereafter, the Trump administration withheld billions of dollars from various federal agencies, violating the Impoundment Control Act of 1974, according to many legal scholars. This act limits the president’s power to withhold funds appropriated by Congress.
Legal expert Ilya Somin from George Mason University noted, “No other modern president has tried this on such an enormous scale.” He warned that allowing such actions to go unchallenged could give the president undue control over federal funds and influence over state and local governments.
Moreover, the White House is reportedly spending over $1 billion per day on the conflict in Iran without seeking congressional approval, raising further concerns about executive overreach.
Collins has faced allegations of hypocrisy, as she previously emphasized the importance of congressional control over federal spending. In a 2023 interview with the Bottom Line podcast, she stated, “It’s Congress that controls the power of the purse under the Constitution, and we should not cede all that authority to the executive branch.”
In another appearance on WGAN radio in 2024, Collins reiterated the importance of Congress’ fiscal authority, describing it as “our most important responsibility as envisioned by the founders of this nation.”
In July 2025, both the House and the Senate approved a rescissions bill that withdrew funds from some agencies affected by the White House’s actions. This bill passed with Republican support only. Collins did not back the bill, nor did she vote for a proposal requiring the Appropriations Committee to review and amend it, as reported by the Portland Press Herald.
Recently, Collins opposed a war powers resolution that would have compelled the White House to either withdraw forces from Iran or seek congressional approval to continue the military engagement. Financial disclosures indicate that she has earned approximately $25,000 from investments in oil and gas since the onset of the conflict.
Collins is seeking her sixth term in the Senate, with her Democratic challenger to be determined in the upcoming June 9 primary.
—
Read More Kitchen Table News
