Rep. Tim Burchett is now reportedly pressing for greater transparency from the federal government, calling on President Donald Trump to release all files related to UFOs and extraterrestrial life. The Tennessee Republican made the case during a Sunday appearance on Fox News’ “The Big Weekend Show,” arguing that the American people deserve answers about what their government knows—and what it has been funding.
Burchett, known for his outspoken approach, suggested that the issue goes beyond speculation about “little green men” or Hollywood-style flying saucers. Instead, he framed it as a matter of accountability, particularly when it comes to taxpayer dollars.
“It’s about what are we spending tens of millions of your dollars on,” Burchett said, pointing to what he described as conflicting messages from government agencies. According to the congressman, some officials deny the existence of such phenomena, while others within the same bureaucratic structure acknowledge them.
The remarks came after a lighthearted exchange with Fox News co-host Tomi Lahren, who asked Burchett whether he would rather discuss allegations facing Rep. Eric Swalwell or UFOs. Burchett briefly addressed the controversy surrounding Swalwell, noting that the allegations have been widely discussed and saying he was unsure of their validity before pivoting back to the issue he clearly sees as more pressing.
“It’s not about that,” Burchett said, quickly steering the conversation toward what he described as deeper concerns within the federal government.
The congressman emphasized that he has been briefed on information that he characterized as “pretty wild,” though he stopped short of offering specifics. Still, he made clear that, in his view, the public has a right to know what has been uncovered—and what is being studied using federal funds.
“Just tell the American public,” Burchett said, adding that he has urged Trump directly to “peel back the layers of that onion” and allow citizens to determine for themselves how to interpret the information. “I think we can handle it,” he added.
Burchett’s comments echo a broader skepticism among some conservatives regarding government secrecy and the role of unelected agencies. He also raised the possibility that the issue could be used to justify increased funding, suggesting it might even function as a “psyop” to channel resources toward certain parts of the government.
His Fox News appearance followed similar remarks in an interview with ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith, where Burchett reiterated that the information he has seen does not resemble the dramatic alien invasions depicted in films like “Independence Day.”
The renewed focus on UFOs has also been fueled by comments from former President Barack Obama, who said earlier this year that aliens are real, while clarifying that he has not seen them and that they are not being held at Area 51. Obama’s remarks drew criticism from Trump, who argued that the former president should not have discussed the topic publicly.
“He gave classified information,” Trump said in response. “He’s not supposed to be doing that.”
Trump later indicated that he would move to release government files related to UFOs and aliens, a step that aligns with Burchett’s call for greater openness.
As debate over the issue continues, Burchett’s push highlights a broader concern about transparency in government—particularly at a time when public trust remains strained. While questions about extraterrestrial life may capture attention, the underlying issue he raised is more grounded: how decisions are made, how money is spent, and whether the American people are being told the full story.
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