Federal, state, and local leaders from the Hudson Valley have expressed support for Attorney General Letitia James' request to the Social Security Administration (SSA) to maintain its offices in the region. The Trump administration's plan to close the White Plains hearing office and reduce services at the Poughkeepsie field office has raised concerns about accessibility for seniors, veterans, and disabled residents.
U.S. Representative George Latimer highlighted the inconvenience caused by these closures: “The closure of the hearing office in my district means that seniors and people who are disabled will have to travel much longer distances – as far away as Albany and New Haven— at greater expense, to fight for their benefits.” He praised Attorney General James for her leadership on this issue.
Representative Mike Lawler also voiced his disapproval: “I have expressed my outrage at the looming closure of the Social Security Administration's hearing office in White Plains directly to both the Biden and Trump administrations.”
Pat Ryan emphasized the broader implications of such decisions: “The chaos of the Trump Administration is directly hurting our Hudson Valley seniors...My ‘Protecting Social Security Act’ would make it clear once and for all: there will be no cuts, your benefits are protected.”
Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins warned against creating barriers for those needing SSA services: "Closing the White Plains hearing office and reduction of any services would create unnecessary barriers."
Senator Nathalia Fernandez described potential closures as a sign of eroding essential services: “This is just the beginning—if we don’t hold the line now, more New Yorkers will be left without resources they depend on.”
Senator Pete Harckham expressed concern over reduced access: “Closing the central hearing office of Social Security in White Plains will reduce access to retirement and disability services.”
Assemblymember Didi Barrett shared similar sentiments: “The closure...will continue to inconvenience and create confusion for many New Yorkers who will have to travel great distances.”
Local officials including Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins also voiced their concerns, stressing commitment to accessible services. Peekskill Mayor Vivian McKenzie noted, "Closing that office and Poughkeepsie location would put a heavy burden on these residents who would have to travel 100 miles for a hearing."
Attorney General James continues her advocacy efforts alongside community leaders. The situation remains unresolved as discussions with SSA proceed.