Senators question Trump's Social Security nominee on privatization

Frank Bisignano is set to face questions on Tuesday from senators regarding his nomination as the Social Security commissioner. He is currently the CEO of Fiserv, a payments technology company, and has been nominated by President Donald Trump. Democratic Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ron Wyden expressed concerns in a letter to Bisignano. They questioned his stance on the potential privatization of the Social Security Administration (SSA). The senators fear that ongoing changes initiated by the Trump administration might weaken the agency. They argue that these changes could lead to fewer jobs and closed offices, which would negatively impact beneficiaries. Warren and Wyden highlighted statements made by Elon Musk, who is reportedly involved with changes at the SSA. Musk has previously criticized Social Security, calling it a "Ponzi scheme." The senators worry that privatizing Social Security might benefit companies like Fiserv but could endanger the support people receive from the program. The confirmation hearing will allow senators to ask Bisignano key questions about his views and plans for the SSA. They are particularly interested in whether he would commit to not privatizing the program or closing any offices. Some lawmakers believe Bisignano’s experience in the private sector could be an advantage as he prepares for the role.