Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-Mont.) issued the following comment today on the recess appointment of Dr. Donald Berwick to be Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). From Chairman Baucus:
“I'm troubled that, rather than going through the standard nomination process, Dr. Berwick was recess appointed. Senate confirmation of presidential appointees is an essential process prescribed by the Constitution that serves as a check on executive power and protects Montanans and all Americans by ensuring that crucial questions are asked of the nominee - and answered.
“Despite the recess appointment, I look forward to working with CMS as they implement health reform to deliver the better health care outcomes and lower costs for patients we fought to pass in the landmark health reform law."
Source: Ranking Member’s News
