Nashville Standard

United States Senator Bill Hagerty appeared on CBS's Face the Nation to discuss President Donald Trump's efforts to reform the Executive Branch. The discussion focused on eliminating wasteful spending and unnecessary government programs.

Senator Hagerty, a member of several Senate committees and former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, expressed support for Trump's buyout plan for federal workers. He stated, "Eventually, it will save taxpayers money. I think what President Trump is trying to do is be humane in the process of allowing them to make plans to find other employment." Hagerty emphasized that this initiative marks the beginning of reducing government size and aims for a thorough review of each agency's needs.

Hagerty also addressed concerns about the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), calling it an agency without oversight and describing its design as "unconstitutional." He praised efforts to bring more accountability and control within federal agencies, saying, "It’s time to rein it in."

The senator further discussed USAID funding, highlighting a lack of accountability and transparency regarding its programs. Hagerty pointed out issues such as alleged funding for Hamas through USAID and called for alignment with America's national security interests.

On trade agreements, Hagerty mentioned discussions with President Trump about revisiting terms established post-World War II. He noted that some countries currently benefit from unfair terms due to historical agreements that have not been updated according to economic development levels.