In July, White House Office of Management and Budget director Peter Orszag could be leaving his post. Officials close to Orszag have said he would be leaving for a when, but the July date was only recently announced to the public. The White House OMB director carries significant financial and political clout within the government. Though names are being considered, no solid replacement has been appointed yet.
Peter Orszag as budget guru
As director of the OMB, Peter Orszag was a member of Obama’s cabinet. The OMB is charged with creating the annual White House budget that is sent to Congress. The OMB also provides estimates and opinions on legislation, in support of the Congressional Budget Office, upon the request of members of Congress. Two major pieces of legislation that Peter Orszag fought for were the stimulus bill and health care reform.
Peter Orszag’s government career
. He began as a Special Assistant to the President for Economic Policy and has moved up the ranks given that then. Orszag served as Congressional Budget Office head from January 2007 to November 2008. Peter Orszag also writes the official Office of Management and Budget blogger.
Who’ll be the replacement for Peter Orszag?
The replacement candidates for Peter Orszag have not yet been officially announced. However, political watchers are throwing names around already. More likely than not, Peter Orszag’s replacement can be someone already within the White House. Some point to Rob Nabors, who has lately been attending senior staff meetings at the White House and acted as Orszag’s right-hand person from ‘96 to ‘98. Members of the Economic Recovery Advisory Board and Treasury Secretary counselors have also been named as possible replacements. This new budget person will most likely face political pressure, tough questions, and a very rough first day on the job – so I hope they’re ready.
