NW Kentucky News

House Committee on Oversight and Accountability Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.) addressed the issue of government waste during a hearing focused on the Government Accountability Office’s (GAO) 2025 High Risk List. The list identifies federal programs at risk for waste, fraud, abuse, and mismanagement. Comer highlighted the ongoing problem of inefficient federal programs that fail to meet their objectives despite detailed reports from GAO since 1990.

Comer stated that President Trump is taking steps to address these issues by working with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which uses GAO's findings as a guide to safeguard taxpayer money. He emphasized the need for Congress to enhance oversight and data collection to ensure responsible spending of public funds.

During his remarks, Comer acknowledged Comptroller General Dodaro's service as he prepares for retirement later this year. He praised Dodaro for his contributions in uncovering inefficiencies within the federal government.

"The average American works too hard to see tax dollars wasted," said Comer, stressing the importance of wise spending of taxpayer money. He noted that billions lost due to inefficiencies could be redirected towards lowering taxes or improving infrastructure.

Comer pointed out that familiar programs remain on the High Risk List year after year, despite efforts by GAO to highlight their shortcomings. He mentioned President Trump's commitment to reducing bureaucracy and eliminating waste through DOGE’s audits and initiatives.

He also referenced Elon Musk's involvement in modernizing government IT systems for increased efficiency. Additionally, he highlighted Secretary Hegseth’s collaboration with DOGE under President Trump's leadership to address financial management issues within the Department of Defense.

"We are excited to work with the Trump Administration," Comer stated, emphasizing a shared mission among Republicans in Congress and DOGE to combat wasteful spending.

The hearing featured insights from Comptroller General Dodaro on GAO's efforts and discussions on protecting taxpayer funds from misuse by government entities.