Following a recent government shutdown, some Army civilian employees were instructed to work despite being slated for furlough, then later directed to falsify their timecards to reflect furlough. This directive has raised concerns among these employees that they were compelled to violate the Anti-Deficiency Act, which prohibits federal spending without appropriations. Officials reportedly issued conflicting guidance, initially directing normal operations before furloughing some staff and then instructing them to inaccurately record their hours.
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The Department of Defense announced the acceptance of a $130 million donation from an anonymous Trump ally to cover military salaries during the government shutdown. This unprecedented move, departing from traditional reliance on congressional appropriations, has sparked inquiries from lawmakers across the political spectrum. Democrats are particularly concerned, citing potential violations of the Anti-Deficiency Act, which prohibits the use of private donations to offset funding shortfalls. The identity of the donor and the specifics of the donation’s use remain unclear, with the Pentagon and White House deflecting questions about these details.
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Senator Murphy sharply criticized Secretary Noem’s management of the Department of Homeland Security, citing illegal spending practices that risk violating the Anti-Deficiency Act and leaving the nation vulnerable to cyberattacks and natural disasters. He also condemned the department’s disregard for congressionally appropriated funds, specifically citing the illegal impoundment of money for shelter services and citizenship integration programs. Furthermore, Murphy denounced the administration’s unlawful targeting and deportation of legal immigrants and protestors, highlighting the defiance of a unanimous Supreme Court ruling. This blatant disregard for the rule of law and the Constitution, Murphy argued, undermines the balance of power within the government.
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John Q. Hosedrinker