President Donald Trump has nominated Brian Johnson, a former official with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), to serve as the agency's next permanent director. If confirmed by the Senate, Johnson will take over a bureau that has been largely inoperable since Trump returned to office and placed his budget director, Russell Vought, in charge on an acting basis.
Johnson previously held a senior role at the CFPB during Trump's first term, where he was involved in regulatory reform efforts. His nomination signals the administration's intent to reshape the consumer watchdog agency, which has faced criticism from conservatives for overreach and praise from consumer advocates for protecting borrowers.
The CFPB has been without a permanent director since Trump's second term began, with Vought serving as acting director while also managing the Office of Management and Budget. Critics argue that the agency's operations have stalled under Vought's leadership, delaying enforcement actions and rulemaking.
Johnson's confirmation process is expected to be contentious, with Senate Democrats likely to scrutinize his record on consumer protections. Supporters say he will bring stability and a focus on reducing regulatory burdens.
The nomination comes amid broader debates over the CFPB's authority and mission.