1. United States
2. Mass.
3. Letter

The decision by the acting commissioner of the Social Security Administration to terminate contracts with Maine for the Enumeration at Birth program and electronic death registration is deeply concerning. This vindictive action, fueled by political retaliation against Gov. Janet Mills, threatens to undermine the integrity of Social Security's operations and erode public trust in the agency. The Enumeration at Birth program has been a longstanding practice, allowing parents to conveniently register their newborns for Social Security numbers at the hospital. Terminating this program in Maine will not only inconvenience families but also increase the risk of improper payments and identity theft, as warned by Social Security staff. Furthermore, the revelation that this decision was motivated by political payback against Gov. Mills for her stance on transgender athletes is a gross abuse of power. A federal agency should never be weaponized for partisan interests, especially one as crucial as Social Security, which millions of Americans rely on. It is imperative that the acting commissioner resigns immediately to restore faith in the agency's impartiality and commitment to serving the public interest. Social Security must be guided by principles of fairness, efficiency, and adherence to the rule of law, not by petty political grievances. Protecting the integrity of Social Security's operations is crucial, especially for states like Maine with a high number of beneficiaries. The agency's leadership must uphold its solemn obligation to treat Social Security as a public trust, not a political bargaining chip. The well-being of millions of Americans depends on it.