At a Senate Small Business Committee hearing titled “From Fraud to Recovery: Restoring Integrity in Small Business Programs,” Ranking Member Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) criticized the Trump administration for what he described as partisan enforcement of fraud laws. Markey called attention to what he views as selective prosecution and lack of independent oversight.
“Last night, President Trump declared a so-called ‘War on Fraud.’ While fraud must be taken seriously and fraudsters must be held accountable, the Trump administration’s abuses in Minnesota and other Democratic-led states like my home state of Massachusetts demonstrate exactly why we need real independent and equitable oversight at all levels of government,” said Ranking Member Markey. “Hypocrisy is the tribute that vice pays to virtue. Donald Trump is paying tribute to fraud, when ‘fraud’ is a great way to describe his entire administration.”
During the hearing, Markey pointed out instances where he believes the administration overlooked or enabled fraudulent behavior for political reasons. He cited examples such as presidential pardons for convicted fraudsters, awarding contracts to associates, and actions that benefited the president’s family.
Markey ended his remarks by stating his commitment to passing legislation aimed at addressing fraud fairly and supporting small businesses through bipartisan measures.
The Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee plays a role in shaping national fiscal policy by providing Congress with policy options on federal budget matters and contributing to the congressional budget process through resolutions and reconciliation instructions. The committee also offers nonpartisan analysis via its oversight of the Congressional Budget Office. It was established under the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974, according to its official website.
