Ranking Member Edward J. Markey has raised concerns over the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) conduct during the ongoing government shutdown, alleging that the agency is being used for partisan purposes. In a letter sent to SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler, Markey cited evidence suggesting that nonpartisan federal employees were directed to include political messages in their out-of-office email replies. Similar messaging was reportedly used on SBA district office voicemails and displayed as pop-up banners on the agency’s official website.
Markey emphasized that these actions may violate the Hatch Act, which restricts federal employees from engaging in certain types of political activity, including advocacy for or against political parties or candidates while performing official duties.
In his letter, Markey stated: “The SBA’s actions are a gross misuse of federal resources and a betrayal of public trust. Career civil servants do not swear their oath of office to a president, a political party, or a campaign, they swear to uphold the Constitution. The weaponization of public agencies for partisan gain is the hallmark of authoritarian regimes, not of American democracy.”
He also noted: “The SBA plays a vital role in stabilizing communities during times of crisis and ensuring that small businesses and entrepreneurs, particularly those in underserved communities, receive the support they need to grow and thrive. Any attempt to convert the agency or its workforce into a partisan tool undermines this mission and harms the small businesses that rely on the SBA’s impartiality and professionalism.”
Markey has requested answers from Administrator Loeffler by October 17 regarding how decisions were made about promoting partisan language through various channels within the agency. He also asked whether officials involved had received legal guidance on compliance with federal law governing political activity by civil servants.
