Show-Me State Times

In a recent hearing, Senator Josh Hawley questioned Office of Management and Budget nominee Russ Vought on issues related to military contracting and pro-life regulations. The Missouri senator expressed concerns about consulting firms like McKinsey & Company, which hold significant contracts with the U.S. military while engaging in business with countries considered adversaries.

Hawley stated, "My view is that if they want to do business with China, I don’t recommend it, but I suppose it’s fine so long as it’s not illegal." However, he emphasized that such firms should not receive substantial federal military contracts from the U.S. government at the same time.

The senator has been vocal about potential conflicts of interest posed by McKinsey's activities. He introduced the Time to Choose Act last year, aiming to prevent companies from securing government contracts if they also advise U.S. adversaries like China. This legislation would also bar federal agencies from contracting with consulting firms engaged with certain foreign entities, including the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

In addition to military contracting concerns, Hawley addressed pro-life regulatory measures during his questioning of Vought. He highlighted Vought's potential authority to enforce the Hyde Amendment, which prohibits federal funding for abortions. The senator inquired whether family planning funds under Title X should be allocated for abortion services and if pregnancy resource centers should qualify for federal grants.

Hawley also questioned Vought's stance on reinstating the Mexico City Policy, which restricts foreign aid from being used for abortion services overseas. Known for his strong pro-life advocacy, Hawley recently introduced the End Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Providers Act to cut off funding to Planned Parenthood and other abortion providers nationwide.