The Honorable Rand Paul
Chairman
U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs
340 Dirksen Senate Office Building
Washington, DC, 20510
Dear Chairman Paul,
Hal Duncan has been nominated to serve as deputy director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Mr. Duncan is well qualified for this important position and should be confirmed by the Senate.
OMB plays a key role in coordinating budget and regulatory policy across the federal government. It helps develop the President’s budget, oversees the execution of federal spending, reviews regulations, and promotes effective management throughout the executive branch. Competent and principled leadership at OMB is essential to protecting taxpayers and placing the federal budget on a more sustainable path.
The Trump Administration has taken steps to protect taxpayers. Outlays in fiscal year 2025 were slightly below the Congressional Budget Office’s January 2025 baseline projections for the year, largely reflecting savings from reversing the previous administration’s student loan giveaways. However, the fiscal trajectory remains headed in the wrong direction. Federal outlays are projected to be $3 trillion, or 68%, higher in FY 2026 than in pre-pandemic FY 2019. The debt held by the public now exceeds the size of the economy.
These fiscal challenges require experienced officials who understand both the federal budget and the legislative process. Mr. Duncan is a dedicated public servant and an expert in fiscal policy, with substantial experience in both the executive and legislative branches.
As OMB’s Associate Director of Legislative Affairs, Mr. Duncan played an integral role in securing passage of the first standalone rescissions package enacted since 1992. He previously served in the offices of Sen. Pat Toomey and Rep. Chip Roy, where he developed a strong understanding of the budget process and Congressional procedure.
Mr. Duncan possesses the experience, judgment, and commitment to public service needed to help lead OMB. We respectfully urge the Committee to support his nomination and the Senate to confirm him as Deputy Director of the Office of Management and Budget.
Sincerely,
Matthew Dickerson
Senior Fellow for Budget Policy
National Taxpayers Union