Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley voiced his support on Mar. 24 for Colin McDonald’s nomination to serve as Assistant Attorney General for the Department of Justice’s National Fraud Enforcement Division. The Senate was set to vote on McDonald’s confirmation following his February hearing and advancement by the committee last week.
The appointment is seen as a key step in addressing federal program fraud, which has affected programs intended to help vulnerable groups such as children with autism, the elderly, and small businesses. The Senate Judiciary Committee plays a significant role in upholding constitutional protections and public safety through its legislative and oversight duties, according to the official website.
During remarks on the Senate floor, Grassley said, “Today, we’re voting on Colin McDonald to serve as the Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division.” He commended President Trump and Attorney General Bondi for their efforts "to address the ongoing crisis of federal program fraud." Grassley also highlighted bipartisan agreement on fighting fraud that targets American taxpayers.
Grassley described recent hearings held by the committee about cases of fraud in Minnesota and noted that similar schemes have been found across the country. He said these crimes harm not only intended recipients but also taxpayers who fund these programs. In testimony before senators, McDonald committed to “prosecute criminals who exploit the generosity of our country by stealing from taxpayer-funded programs. Every dollar stolen is a dollar that didn’t put bread on the table, that didn’t reach the hospital bed, that didn’t meet the need identified by Congress. Fraudsters should never be allowed to rip off the United States of America.”
Grassley further outlined McDonald's qualifications: "He’s spent his entire career in public service as an assistant U.S. Attorney in the Southern District of California." Grassley said McDonald specialized in prosecuting various forms of fraud including money laundering and tax crimes.
The Senate Judiciary Committee is led by a chair who oversees meetings with senators from both major political parties; it influences civil rights and public safety nationwide through its legislative responsibilities according to its official website. As a standing committee based in Washington D.C., it holds authority over judicial matters across federal law according to its official website.
Grassley concluded his remarks saying he believes "the American people will be in good hands with Mr. McDonald working on their side" and encouraged colleagues to support confirmation.
