“The Trump administration has failed to be open and transparent with Congress about their activities – despite promises from SBA Administrator Loeffler that she would be responsive to all members of the Committee. But, because of this Administration’s utter contempt for accountability and their shameless lack of transparency, this SBA has failed to provide us with the information necessary to hold them accountable and ensure small businesses are being supported."
Ranking Member Markey expressed concerns regarding the confirmation of SBA Deputy Administrator nominee William Briggs. Markey criticized the administration's approach, stating, "We still do not know if SBA has sufficient staff on hand to carry out its core programs, including disaster assistance and access to capital. But that hasn’t stopped them from proposing to cut the agency by 33%."
Markey highlighted several issues yet unresolved: "We still do not know what grants and contracts have been terminated because of President Trump’s executive order eliminating programs that promote diversity, equity and inclusion. We still do not know the extent to which DOGE staffers gained access to confidential small business data at SBA." Additionally, he noted uncertainties surrounding regional offices: "We still do not know which SBA regional and district offices will be relocated or remain open to serve small business owners, including our Springfield district office in Massachusetts."
Markey emphasized the importance of these questions for Congressional oversight: “These questions are important because Congress must know whether our small businesses are getting the support they need and deserve." He questioned Briggs' willingness to cooperate with committee Democrats: "Mr. Briggs has consistently deferred to the classic Trump talking points: I am not an SBA employee, and I will follow the law. But we know that this administration does anything BUT follow the law."
Markey concluded with a warning about Briggs' potential behavior if confirmed: "Let us be clear. If William Briggs is unwilling to be forthcoming with committee Democrats during the confirmation process, you can bet that he will be unwilling to be transparent and unwilling to stand up for small businesses once he has the job.”
