Former Social Security Administrator Martin O’Malley urged Democrats on Monday not to falter in safeguarding the eligibility program amid worries of potential reductions.
In a memo obtained by Hill, O’Malley criticized the Trump administration for allegedly trying to dismantle the Social Security Agency, suggesting this would take funds away from Americans’ Trust Fund, and claimed that this approach is counterproductive.
“Polls, the fervor of Americans taking to the streets, and results from early elections indicate we are positioned for success in our fight to protect Social Security, and that Leader Jeffries’ message is resonating,” the memo stated.
“That’s why the White House is trying to downplay it. Americans are energized and prepared to defend Social Security benefits. We need to communicate our interests, hold them accountable for the program’s instability, and inform the public about what actions are being taken to maintain these benefits,” it added.
O’Malley’s organization referred to a survey from Navigator Research showing that 85% of Americans oppose cuts to the program. Additionally, 48% of those surveyed believe Republicans will place blame for any benefit attacks.
This memo follows the Senate confirmation of Frank Vignano to lead the Social Security Agency (SSA), marking significant appointments in major U.S. banks after years on Wall Street.
In the early days of his administration, Trump and officials, including Elon Musk, promoted initiatives from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), claiming to tackle what they called waste, fraud, and abuse within the SSA.
Democrats have raised alarms, suggesting that Trump and Republicans might attempt to diminish agencies through Congress or DOGE. They also think this topic could be pivotal in messaging as next year’s midterm elections approach.
However, some Republicans on Capitol Hill are also worried about the SSA’s future.
Recently, 15 House Republicans wrote to Vignano, urging caution against staff reductions or local office closures due to deteriorating customer service.
“We need to tread carefully and evaluate how any changes could affect the services for seniors and individuals with disabilities who rely on the Social Security Administration for their retirement benefits and supplementary security income,” the letter stated.
In the Senate, some Republicans are advocating for DOGE to refrain from altering the program.
In a Sunday interview, Vignano expressed confidence that the SSA would still be operational in the 2100s.
“We don’t aim to dismantle a system that can be refined,” he said during an interview with Maria Bartiromo on Fox News’ Sunday Morning Futures.
“By collaborating with the Senate and Congress, we can assure that we will be around for at least the next 90 years,” he added.
