Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent faced intense questioning from Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse during a Senate Finance Committee hearing as Democrats pressed the Trump administration over a controversial, now-shelved proposal for a $1.8 billion fund. Whitehouse repeatedly challenged Bessent on the plan, which critics argued could have allowed significant discretion over federal funds and potentially benefited political allies. The Rhode Island senator accused Bessent of dodging key questions, warning that transparency and accountability are essential when dealing with taxpayer money.

Democrats pressed the Treasury chief over whether other taxpayers affected by the leak that included Trump's tax returns would receive similar treatment.

On Capitol Hill, the secretary was asked about his past dustup with Pulte, whose new job as Trump’s DNI is already in jeopardy.