Horsford on Leaked Social Security Memo: Trump Admin Overlooked Obvious Facts, or They Simply Don’t Care

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Steven Horsford (NV-04) today responded to news of a leaked memo from Acting Deputy Social Security Administration (SSA) Commissioner Doris Diaz outlining proposed claims process changes that would significantly hamper operations and prevent many Nevadans and people across America from applying for or receiving benefits.

The memo, dated March 13, suggests that applicants who cannot verify their identity with the SSA’s online system should visit a local field office in person, ending the opportunity for these individuals to apply for, or update, benefits over the phone.

 “My constituents who paid into Social Security deserve the benefits they’ve earned, regardless of whether they visit a field office,” Rep. Horsford said. “Social Security recipients may not have the mobility for an in-person visit, or they may live in remote areas without offices nearby. Either the Trump administration overlooked these very obvious facts, or they simply don’t care. Either way, my constituents deserve better.”

 The leaked memo acknowledges significant harm would follow from the policy change, estimating an influx 75,000 to 85,000 customers for already-inundated field offices each week. 

 It further acknowledges that the policy changes would create increased “challenges for vulnerable populations.”

 “This administration is shutting down SSA field offices for ‘efficiency’ and simultaneously trying to funnel scores of additional customers to them,” Rep. Horsford said. “That kind of mismanagement would hamstring any organization, and when it comes to health and wellbeing – particularly for vulnerable people in their golden years – the stakes are simply too high.”

Congressman Horsford is proud to lead the Keeping Our Field Offices Open Act with Congressman John Larson. The legislation would prevent Elon Musk’s effort to close Social Security Administration offices.