WASHINGTON (AP) – Neera Tanden’s appointment to head the White House’s Office of Management and Budget was called into question Friday when West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin became the first Democratic lawmaker to oppose her confirmation.
During her confirmation hearings, Tanden apologized for years of attacking top Republicans on social media. She is a former adviser to Hillary Clinton and served as president of the Liberal Center for American Progress. With the Senate evenly split between 50 Republicans and 50 Democrats, it likely needs support from at least one Republican to get confirmation.
“I believe her openly biased statements will have a poisonous and damaging impact on the important working relationship between members of Congress and the next director of the Office of Management and Budget,” Manchin said in a statement. He went on to say that in a time of severe crisis, “it is more important than ever that we chart a new two-pronged course that helps tackle the many serious challenges our nation is facing.”
It’s the first real test Biden has undergone in a nomination, with most of his cabinet position choices sailing across the room with bipartisan support. Tanden had also discredited some Democrats on social media, most notably Senator Bernie Sanders, the Vermont independent.
Biden, who asked Friday if he would draw Tanden’s nomination, said he wouldn’t.
“I think we’re going to find the votes and get her confirmed,” said Biden.
Moments earlier, the White House had issued a statement defending her.
“Neera Tanden is a seasoned policy expert who would make an excellent budget director and we look forward to the committee’s votes next week and to continue to work on her confirmation through engagement with both parties,” said White House press secretary Jen Psaki. .
Teeth would be the first woman of color to lead the OMB, which ensures that an administration’s priorities are reflected in laws and regulations.
The Senate Budgets Committee will vote on her nomination next week.