AFGE speaks out against Lockhart appearances

Press Release:

The National Social Security Council of the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) today questioned the appearance of Social Security Administration (SSA) Deputy Commissioner James B. Lockhart III at events held by congressional Republicans that promoted privatizing Social Security.

"It is inexcusable to take money out of the Social Security Trust Fund, which is paid for by Americans' FICA contributions and pays for benefits, so Deputy Commissioner Lockhart can go on a tour around the country advocating a plan that may end Social Security as we know it," said Debbie Fredericksen, executive vice president of the National Social Security Council.

Fredericksen continued, "First SSA attempted to force career employees into promoting privatizing Social Security. Now Lockhart is using his position with the Social Security Administration, traveling around the country, to promote privatizing Social Security. Normally SSA salaries, per diem, airfare, hotel accommodations, and miscellaneous travel expenses ultimately are paid out of the Social Security Trust Fund, as normal administrative costs. If Mr. Lockhart's salary and travel expenses are being paid by SSA to promote privatizing Social Security, this is scandalous."

Indeed.