Q&A: Oklahoma delegation reacts to federal funding, cabinet appointments, & budget plans

Griffin Media’s Washington Bureau Chief Alex Cameron answered questions about federal funding, cabinet appointments, and the administration’s budget plans:

Q: Alex, what’s the overall feeling in Washington regarding the early actions of the second Trump administration?

A: It depends on who you talk to. The all-Republican Oklahoma delegation is largely supportive of the administration’s efforts. While some lawmakers are hesitant to comment on specific policies, they are urging people not to jump to conclusions about funding cuts. Some programs that appear to be at risk may ultimately remain intact. The delegation believes that the programs most important to Oklahomans will likely not be affected, though some Democrats have expressed deep concerns about potential cuts.

Q: What programs are potentially facing cuts?

A: There’s uncertainty surrounding funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH), which supports research at institutions like the University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma State University. Aid programs, education funding, Medicaid, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are also being discussed. The House Republicans have released a blueprint for $1.5 to $2 trillion in spending cuts over the next decade, but the details of where those cuts will land remain unclear.

Q: How is the Oklahoma delegation responding to these concerns?

A: The delegation is advising patience, saying it’s too early to tell which programs will be affected. They are confident that critical funding for Oklahoma will remain in place, even as budget discussions continue.

Q: There have been major developments with Trump’s cabinet appointments. What’s the latest?

A: The biggest confirmation this week was Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Other significant confirmations included Tulsi Gabbard earlier in the week. While there is some opposition to nominees like Linda McMahon for Secretary of Education and Laurie Chavez-DeRemer, it appears that all remaining nominees will be confirmed. The biggest hurdle was Matt Gaetz, who withdrew his nomination before any hearings.

Q: How involved has the Oklahoma delegation been in the confirmation process?

A: Senators James Lankford and Markwayne Mullin have been active in the confirmation hearings, with Mullin playing a key role in supporting some of the more controversial nominees. Their involvement has helped ensure that the administration’s picks are making it through the process.

Q: There’s been talk about shrinking the federal government. Where do things stand on budget reconciliation?

A: Budget reconciliation and avoiding a government shutdown are separate issues. The House and Senate budget committees recently passed resolutions outlining $1.5 to $2 trillion in cuts while planning for $4.5 trillion in tax cuts. The House is aiming for a single comprehensive package, while the Senate is considering a two-bill approach. Ultimately, the House may take the lead on the process.

Q: Is there a risk of a government shutdown?

A: There’s a concern, particularly from Rep. Tom Cole, that efforts to finalize the fiscal year 2025 appropriations before the March 14 deadline aren’t getting enough attention. Democrats are frustrated with the GOP’s focus on reconciliation and may be reluctant to support a funding deal. Some have even hinted at a shutdown as a possibility. While nothing is certain, negotiations in the coming weeks will determine the outcome.

Q: What’s the next step in the budget process?

A: The next few weeks will be crucial in determining how these budget cuts will be implemented. Lawmakers will have to figure out how to achieve their proposed reductions while maintaining key programs. The reconciliation process will play a significant role in shaping the government’s financial priorities moving forward.