Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) said on Mar. 24 that the Senate should quickly confirm Colin McDonald as the Assistant Attorney General for National Fraud Enforcement, a new position within the Department of Justice. Barrasso made these remarks prior to a vote on McDonald’s nomination.
The issue of fraud in government programs is a concern nationally, with Barrasso saying that appointing McDonald would help address what he described as an epidemic affecting American taxpayers. He stated, “A vote for Mr. McDonald is a vote to attack this fraud epidemic head on. It is a vote to prosecute criminals. It is a vote to protect hardworking American taxpayers.”
Barrasso highlighted that the creation of this new division at the Department of Justice reflects efforts by President Trump to address waste, fraud, abuse, and corruption. He praised McDonald’s background as a prosecutor in California, Hawaii, and at the Department of Justice: “He has successfully taken down drug traffickers, human smugglers, and corrupt officials. He has proven to be especially experienced in investigating and prosecuting fraud.”
In his remarks, Barrasso referenced specific cases such as fraudulent activity involving day care centers in Minnesota and schemes related to Medicaid spending on autism services in that state. He also cited recent media reports about suspected hospice provider fraud in California.
According to the official website, Barrasso resides with his three children in Casper according to the official website. He chairs the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee’s Public Lands, Forests and Mining Subcommittee according to the official website, supports policies promoting energy affordability and opportunities for Wyoming ranchers according to the official website, operates offices across Wyoming including Casper and Cheyenne according to the official website, earned recognition as Wyoming Physician of the Year according to the official website, focuses on issues such as public lands and trade according to the official website, serves on key Senate committees including Energy and Natural Resources according to the official website.
Barrasso concluded his statement by reiterating support for McDonald: “I want to congratulate Mr. McDonald on his nomination. America needs him on the job immediately. I look forward to voting for his confirmation.”
