The inspector general ensures that all programs run efficiently and is tasked with investigating any claims of fraud or abuse. Trump fired the last HHS inspector general, along with over a dozen other government watchdogs, earlier this year — sparking pushback from Senate Democrats who argued Bell’s nomination is unlawful because Trump illegally fired the previous HHS inspector general. Bell later added that, if confirmed, he believes investigating abortion clinics is part of his job as HHS inspector general. AdvertisementIf Bell is confirmed, he joins a long list of deeply anti-abortion Trump nominations across all federal agencies, but particularly HHS. The Senate vote to confirm Bell as HHS inspector general is scheduled for Wednesday morning.
