Nashville Standard

WASHINGTON—United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) faced opposition on the Senate floor today as he sought to pass legislation that would require transparency from the Biden Administration regarding taxpayer-funded voter mobilization plans. Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) blocked the legislation, keeping the plans undisclosed and preventing a basic level of transparency.

Senator Hagerty expressed his concerns about the lack of transparency surrounding Executive Order 14019, which directs federal agencies to utilize taxpayer funds for voter mobilization efforts. He highlighted the administration's resistance to disclose these plans despite repeated requests for information.

Hagerty emphasized the importance of transparency in government actions, citing legal implications such as the Hatch Act and the Anti-Deficiency Act. He raised questions about potential partisan motivations behind the administration's secrecy and called for accountability in the use of taxpayer dollars.

The senator's efforts to promote transparency were met with opposition, with Senator Padilla objecting to the legislation that aimed to shed light on the administration's voter mobilization strategies. Despite bipartisan concerns about the need for disclosure, the Senate faced a deadlock on the issue.

In a statement, Senator Hagerty reiterated the necessity for transparency, stating, "If there’s nothing to hide, then why won’t the Biden White House disclose these plans?" The debate between the senators underscores the ongoing battle for accountability and openness in government operations, particularly concerning significant matters like voter mobilization plans funded by taxpayers.