Rep. Joe Morelle, the top Democrat overseeing the Library of Congress, is urging an investigation into recent White House interventions involving the Library and the U.S. Copyright Office. Morelle and other Democrats sent a letter to the Library of Congress Inspector General, asking for scrutiny of the abrupt firing of Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden and the appointment of an acting director. They are concerned the executive branch may have overstepped its authority by targeting a legislative branch agency and improperly handling congressional files.
Executive Overreach Sparks Bipartisanmdi Concerns Over Librarian Firing and Legislative Interference
The Library of Congress is part of the legislative branch, independent from the executive branch. Morelle’s letter highlights concerns that the White House’s actions violate this separation by demanding confidential legislative data without Congressional authorization.
White House Interference at Library of Congress Triggers Probe Into Librarian Firing and Copyright Access
The recent removal of Hayden, the first woman and first Black Librarian of Congress, and the appointment of Todd Blanche—a former Trump personal lawyer—as acting Librarian, triggered alarms about executive overreach into legislative affairs.
The controversy has drawn bipartisan attention, including rare acknowledgments from Republican leaders like Senate Majority Leader John Thune, who emphasized the importance of following precedent in filling the Librarian position. The unsettled nature of these actions has made clear the tensions and unclear legal boundaries when the executive branch interferes with a legislative agency.
Unauthorized Officials Attempt Access to Copyright Office Amid Medicaid Funding Cut Proposals
Adding to the confusion, two men claiming new roles under the Trump administration reportedly tried to enter the U.S. Copyright Office but were turned away. Brian Nieves and Paul Perkins purported to have White House appointments to leadership positions within the office. Security did not confirm their access, and the legitimacy of their claims remains unclear, compounding worries about unauthorized executive interference.
Separately, House Republicans are proposing legislative text aimed at cutting Medicaid funding, including restrictions tied to work requirements and eligibility verification. Notably, funding cuts are proposed for states allowing undocumented residents to use Medicaid.
While some unpopular cuts may be off the table, Republicans continue pushing for reductions aligned with the Trump administration’s broader policy goals, signaling ongoing political battles over social safety net programs.
