From Newsweek · · 1m
Social Security Email Praising Trump Days Before Midterm Under Scrutiny
Social Security Administration sends email praising Trump days before midterms, sparking Hatch Act concerns.
In brief
Social Security Administration sends email praising Trump days before midterms, sparking Hatch Act concerns. Social Security Commissioner Frank Bisignano sent email praising Trump's administration just before midterms, raising Hatch Act compliance questions. Originally reported by Newsweek.
Social Security Email Praising Trump
Social Security Administration sent email praising President Trump days before midterms.
“Under President Donald J. Trump, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is transforming into a model of excellence”
Email Content Details
Email described SSA as transforming into a model of excellence under Trump with fast, accurate, and secure service.
“Under President Donald J. Trump, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is transforming into a model of excellence, one that meets and exceeds customer expectations for fast, accurate, and secure service”
Hatch Act Concerns
Legal experts question if email violates Hatch Act restrictions on political activity by federal employees.
“They're doing it just before the election to persuade people that President Trump is doing a good job”
Bisignano's Dual Role
Bisignano serves as SSA commissioner and chief executive of the IRS.
“Bisignano is simultaneously serving as SSA commissioner and chief executive of the IRS”
IRS Email Also Praised Trump
IRS sent email praising Trump's tax policies with disclaimer it's for informational purposes only.
“Last year, President Donald J. Trump signed into law the Working Families Tax Cuts, landmark legislation that ushered in a new era of tax relief”
Previous Congressional Criticism
Democratic senators previously criticized SSA for sending Trump-praising emails in July.
“This was an unusual communication that served no legitimate purpose: rather than receiving necessary information about benefits”
What Happens Next
Potential Hatch Act complaint or investigation could follow the email controversy.
“Violations of the Hatch Act can carry a range of disciplinary consequences from a reprimand”
The essence
Social Security Commissioner Frank Bisignano sent email praising Trump's administration just before midterms, raising Hatch Act compliance questions.
