Democratic Senator Chris Murphy called on his party to block all presidential nominees until what he termed a “constitutional crisis” over President Donald Trump’s executive authority is resolved.
Speaking at a rally outside the shuttered US Agency for International Development, Murphy accused Trump of illegally closing the agency at the urging of billionaire Elon Musk, warning the move would strengthen China and Russia.
“USAID fights terrorist groups all across this world making sure that we address the underlying causes that lead to terrorism,” Murphy said. “USAID chases China all around the world, making sure China doesn’t monopolize contracts for critical minerals and port infrastructure.”
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The Connecticut senator claimed Musk, who “makes billions of dollars based off of his business with China,” was part of a “billionaire class trying to take over our government” for self-interest.
The dispute centers on moves by Trump’s Office of Management and Budget to suspend federal spending programs and reduce USAID staffing. Murphy told NPR’s Morning Edition these actions represent “illegal seizures of power.”
“The president of the United States does not have the power unilaterally to suspend all federal programs,” Murphy said, warning such authority could be used to “send money to his friends” or “deny money to his enemies.”
Murphy criticized Republicans for being silent but acknowledged the uncertainty about whether Senate Democrats would unite behind his proposed strategy of blocking nominees. The administration maintains it is acting within its legal authority — while facing multiple court challenges over its spending decisions.
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