Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered remarks during a nomination hearing for Jonathan McKernan and Alex Adams. McKernan is nominated for Under Secretary of the Treasury, while Adams is up for Assistant Health and Human Services Secretary for Family Support.
Crapo expressed gratitude to the nominees, stating, “Thank you to our nominees, Mr. McKernan and Dr. Adams, for being here today. Congratulations on your nominations and thank you both for your willingness to serve.”
The hearing began with Jonathan McKernan’s nomination as Under Secretary for Domestic Finance at the Treasury Department. Crapo highlighted the role of the Domestic Finance office in developing policies related to financial institutions, federal debt finance, financial regulation, and capital markets.
Crapo praised McKernan’s regulatory approach: “Mr. McKernan has a demonstrated track record of support for sound and balanced regulation.” He noted McKernan’s opposition to burdensome rulemakings like the Basel III Endgame Proposal during his tenure at the FDIC.
In addition to his FDIC experience, McKernan has held senior advisory roles with the Senate Banking Committee, FHFA, and Treasury Department. Crapo looked forward to working with him if confirmed.
Dr. Alex Adams from Eagle, Idaho was also discussed as a nominee for Assistant Secretary for Family Support at HHS. This position oversees ACF activities including foster care and adoption assistance.
Crapo emphasized ACF’s role: “ACF plays a vital role in supporting some of America’s most vulnerable populations.” He recognized Adams’ experience as Director of Idaho’s Department of Health and Welfare overseeing nearly 3,000 staff members and a $5.5 billion budget.
Adams’ achievements include working with Idaho State Legislature on child welfare laws such as extending foster care age limits and enhancing permanency times. His fiscal management skills were also highlighted by Crapo: “He has demonstrated a keen eye toward fiscal responsibility.”
Letters supporting Adams’ nomination have been submitted by various stakeholders as requested by Crapo.
“Thank you again to our nominees for their time today,” concluded Crapo.
