Small business leaders in Congress have raised concerns about the Small Business Administration (SBA) one week before Election Day, accusing the agency of obstructing oversight into its voter registration agreement with Michigan’s elections department.
Rep. Roger Williams, R-Texas, chair of the House Small Business Committee, highlighted the SBA's use of a 2021 executive order on promoting access to voting to establish a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Michigan Department of State. The SBA announced a voter registration agreement with the Michigan agency in March, prompting the committee to issue a subpoena for SBA aides in May.
Williams expressed frustration over the lack of cooperation from the SBA, stating that the agency is stalling the investigation into its voter registration scheme. He emphasized the importance of accountability and pledged to use all available resources to oversee the SBA's actions.
Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, criticized the administration for potentially influencing key battleground states through its actions. The SBA, under Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman, defended its response to congressional inquiries, stating that it has provided extensive information in compliance with oversight efforts.
Allegations were also raised regarding Jennifer Kim, an SBA deputy, who reportedly has ties to Democratic campaigns. The committee received claims that Kim may be involved in campaign activities in a swing state while on leave from her official duties.
The SBA denied accusations of stonewalling and emphasized its cooperation with the committee's inquiries. The agency stated that it has participated in hearings, provided briefings, and produced relevant documents in response to the committee's requests.
Overall, the situation underscores the ongoing scrutiny faced by the SBA over its voter registration agreement and highlights the challenges of balancing political neutrality with administrative responsibilities.
