The Social Security Administration (SSA) is in turmoil after Acting Commissioner Michelle King abruptly resigned. Her departure follows a heated dispute over a controversial request for access to sensitive Social Security data.
Michelle King, a dedicated SSA veteran of over 30 years, took a stand against what she saw as a dangerous overreach.
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) had been pushing for access to Social Security recipient information—a request that King firmly denied.
According to two sources close to the situation, King’s resignation was a direct response to mounting pressure from DOGE officials.
Her decision signals a growing tension between agencies tasked with safeguarding Americans’ personal information and those advocating for expanded government oversight.
Who’s Taking Over the SSA?
The White House moved swiftly to appoint Leland Dudek as the new acting commissioner. Dudek, a seasoned SSA official, is expected to maintain stability during this transition.
However, his time in the role may be short-lived.
President Trump has already nominated Frank Bisignano for the permanent commissioner position.
The administration anticipates a swift confirmation process, with White House spokesperson Harrison Fields stating, “The President is committed to appointing the best and most qualified individuals who will serve the American people with integrity.”
King’s departure has raised alarms about data security. Her exit is not an isolated incident—other senior officials have also resigned, citing concerns over DOGE’s increasing access to federal databases.
Reports indicate that DOGE has already gained entry into Treasury payment systems and is attempting to access Internal Revenue Service (IRS) records.
This raises fears that SSA’s vast database—containing information on virtually every American—could be next.
Nancy Altman, president of Social Security Works, issued a stark warning: “SSA holds highly sensitive data, including records for Medicare and Supplemental Security Income.
If misused, someone could erase earnings histories, potentially blocking Americans from receiving benefits they’ve earned.”
With 72.5 million Americans depending on Social Security benefits, this issue has exploded into a major political controversy.
Lawmakers from both parties are demanding transparency, and watchdog groups are calling for stricter oversight to prevent potential misuse of government records.
The battle over Social Security data is far from over.
As the nation watches, one question looms large: Will the government protect Americans’ personal information, or will bureaucratic power struggles put millions at risk?