SOUTH CAROLINA — S.C. Rep. Mick Mulvaney was confirmed by the U.S. Senate on Thursday to lead the White House’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB). He was confirmed by the Senate in a 51-49 vote.

The most prominent function of the OMB is to produce the president’s budget, but members also measure quality of agency programs, policies and procedures to see if they comply with the president’s policies and coordinates inter-agency policy initiatives.

President Donald Trump nominated Mulvaney on Dec. 16, 2016, and the Senate Budget Committee held his hearing on Jan. 24. On Feb. 2, the Committee advanced his nomination by a 12-11 vote.

Sen. Tim Scott voiced his support for Mulvaney after his confirmation.

“I can’t think of a better person than Mick to bring our country back to fiscal discipline. He is an excellent leader and someone who has consistently represented conservative principles, especially when it comes to our budget,” he said. “I am confident he will responsibly address our nation’s $20 trillion debt with the same passion he has shown in Congress and restore fiscal sanity here in Washington. I am excited to work with Mick in his new role.”

On his official Twitter account, Sen. Lindsey Graham said that Mulvaney is a true budget expert who is passionate about government reform and controlling spending.

“Mick Mulvaney understands the top priority of the federal government is to defend our nation,” he tweeted. “I’m confident Mick Mulvaney will provide the Trump Administration with wise advice in all budget-related matters.”

Mulvaney had served as the representative for the Fifth District since he was elected in November 2010. The Fifth District includes part of Newberry County. With his confirmation, his seat will be left vacant after he officially resigns.

Currently there are six Republicans who have indicated they will run for Fifth District: Chad Connelly, Sheri Few, Tom Mullikin, Rep. Ralph Norman, S.C. House Speaker Pro Tem Tommy Pope and Kris Wampler.

At this time, no Democrats have expressed interest in running.

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By Andrew Wigger

awigger@civitasmedia.com

Reach Andrew Wigger at 803-276-0625 ext. 1867 or on Twitter @ TheNBOnews.