Democrats Eye Strict New Limits on White House Budget Powers

Nearly two years ago, Democrats could do little more than watch as President Trump seized control of the U.S. budget, slashing billions of dollars and firing droves of civil workers in a downsizing that Congress never authorized.

Now, as the party prepares to take charge in the House and Senate, its incoming leaders say they are plotting ways to keep Mr. Trump in check.

In the wake of their overwhelming electoral victory, Democrats have promised to cement their power under the Constitution to control the nation’s purse. They hope to boost funding for federal climate, education, health, housing and safety net initiatives next year, then take steps that would prevent Mr. Trump from slowing down or interfering with the money again.

Many of these programs have experienced steep cuts and disruptions during Mr. Trump’s second term, as the White House embraces an expansive view of its power to override Congress. Even though lawmakers have approved the money, Mr. Trump has often refused to spend it or has used the funds for other purposes, drawing rebukes in court — and, on rare occasion, from some Republicans.

Democrats also plan to investigate the architect of that strategy: Russell T. Vought, the White House budget chief who has been working on a “fiscal consolidation” plan that could involve additional cuts, according to other officials.

Over the past two years, Mr. Vought has frequently tried to rebuff congressional oversight of his budget activities. And the White House on Thursday appeared to be considering one of Mr. Vought’s deputies for a post whose responsibilities include monitoring the budget office’s handling of federal spending.