On Tuesday, May 12, 2021, the United States Senate confirmed Martin O’Malley as head of the Social Security Administration (SSA). O’Malley was first nominated by President Joe Biden in mid-January and was approved by a unanimous vote of 84-0. O’Malley is the first Biden-appointed head of the SSA and he will serve a six-year term.
O’Malley had previously served as Governor of Maryland from 2007 to 2015 and as the mayor of Baltimore from 1999-2006. He brings decades of experience in government to the role, including his past tenure as governor and as the mayor of Baltimore. O’Malley is seen as a rising star in the Democratic Party, and his confirmation as head of the SSA is seen as a major achievement for his political career.
At the SSA, O’Malley has pledged to protect coverage and financial security for fund recipients, and has previously spoken about the need to provide comprehensive, expanded assistance for those in need. His confirmation is expected to bring major changes to the way Social Security is administered and to improve the benefits that veterans and others are able to receive. With O’Malley at the helm, it is likely to see the SSA become more responsive and efficient in how it provides services to those receiving Social Security benefits.
