Werfel Confirmed as OMB Controller

By Robert Brodsky

The Senate on Tuesday evening confirmed Danny Werfel as head of the Office of Management and Budget's Office of Federal Financial Management. Werfel, who served as the principal deputy to the controller since March 2006 and completed several stints as acting controller, will now assume the position permanently.

"This is great news for OMB, as Danny brings broad experience and financial acumen to the table," wrote OMB Director Peter Orszag on his blog last night. "His skills will be tested, as there are serious challenges facing the federal government to improve transparency and drive better results for the American people. I look forward to his leadership in furthering President's agenda and in our work going forward. He is, as he has been, vital to what we do."

During his confirmation hearing last month, Werfel told the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee that eliminating inefficient spending, including payment errors and investments in unnecessary real property, would be a priority.

And, as Orszag helpfully points out, the new controller is not to be confused with former Heisman Trophy award winner and subsequent NFL bust quarterback Danny Wuerffel.