KTTC
By Caitlin Alexander
ROCHESTER, Minn. (KTTC) – U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Chuck Grassley are both voicing their support for Social Security benefits for their constituents amid a time of uncertainty for many.
Sen. Klobuchar voiced concerns at a virtual press conference Thursday regarding proposed changes. She noted 1.1 million Minnesotans receive Social Security benefits.
The DFL leader referenced reports of the possible closure of six of 10 Social Security field offices, though those are not in Minnesota.
The Social Security Administration’s website stated a week ago, it is closing one of its hearing offices in White Plains, New York.
Additionally, the Social Security Administration is moving to what’s called “in-person identity proofing” for people unable to use their online account. That is effective April 14.
Klobuchar said she fears changes could lead to additional run-around and difficulties for seniors trying to secure their benefits.
“From my perspective, Social Security is a promise. A promise that if you work hard and pay in with every paycheck, you can retire with dignity,” Sen. Klobuchar said.
Cross Lake, Minnesota resident Tony Wagner joined the senator on the call after reaching out to her office for assistance.
His wife of 57 years passed away in January.
He said that since that time, he’s experienced difficulties trying to get the lump sum death benefit, involving multiple trips to the Social Security office and longer-than-normal wait times on the phone.
“I’ve been receiving Social Security benefits for nearly 15 years, and I’ve never experienced this level of rigmarole,” he said. “Getting access to Social Security should not be this difficult.”
Sen. Grassley attended a finance hearing last week, submitting questions for President Donald Trump’s pick for Commissioner of the Social Security Administration, in which he noted Social Security is top of mind for seniors in his state.
“It hasn’t helped that President Biden’s Social Security Commissioner and Democrats have engaged in reckless speculation seemingly intended to make seniors fear their benefits are in danger,” Sen. Grassley said. “Of course, there isn’t a single member of this committee, Democrat or Republican, that would stand for a disruption or delay to benefits.”