County Executive Ken Jenkins has issued a statement regarding the closure of the Social Security Office in White Plains, highlighting concerns about reduced services for Westchester County residents. The decision was made by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), despite an offer from the county to provide space at a reduced rate.
Jenkins expressed his disappointment, stating, “We start this week with fewer services for the people of Westchester County due to the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)’s decision to close the Social Security Office in White Plains. We offered them space in a County office building at a reduced rate.”
He emphasized his efforts to communicate with local representatives about the impact of this closure. “I have been vocal—I’ve spoken with both Congressman George Latimer and Congressman Mike Lawler—explaining how detrimental this closure will be for our area,” Jenkins said. He criticized the federal government’s decision, suggesting it indicates a lack of concern for service cuts and their consequences.
Jenkins questioned SSA’s motives, arguing that financial savings were not genuinely considered. “If the SSA were truly interested in saving money, they would have accepted the County’s offer for a much more affordable space,” he remarked. He suggested that closing the office is more about denying benefits through omission rather than explicit action.
Addressing potential challenges faced by vulnerable populations, Jenkins noted, “For those who are disabled or elderly, we all know they won’t be able to travel an hour or more to sort out and fight for the benefits they’ve earned.” He criticized what he perceives as an indifferent stance from federal authorities: “Travel is a luxury not everyone can afford—and the federal government knows that. Their message is bold and cruel: starve.”
