Administration Quote by Lamar Alexander
“If the administration asks for $5 and Congress appropriates $4, that's what they get. If the government creates a subterfuge by going outside the government to raise money through a private entity, that's a violation of the law.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Congressional testimony, 2004
When the executive seeks funds beyond what Congress authorizes, it bypasses legal limits and undermines fiscal control.
In simple terms: Government must follow Congress's budget authority.
Key Takeaway
Respect legislative appropriations.
Themes
government
law
budget
accountability
Mood
cautious
critical
Type
political
legal
When to use this quote
- policy making
- public budgeting
- legislative oversight
- executive actions
Key Concepts
separation of powers
fiscal responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How should checks and balances address such funding shortcuts?
- What mechanisms ensure executive compliance with appropriations?
A Different Perspective
Legal challenges can arise if the private entity is not properly authorized.
