'Great Googler in Chief': Man in charge of 70 million Americans had no idea about his job
The recently appointed
Social Security Administration
chief, who previously worked on Wall Street, informed staff that he had to search online about the position when it was initially offered. ABC News acquired audio from
Frank Bisignano
's management meeting.
During a meeting with Social Security managers nationwide on Wednesday, the newly confirmed head of the Social Security Administration disclosed that he lacked knowledge about the role when the
Trump administration
first approached him. Frank Bisignano, who previously held executive positions in the financial sector, made this admission during a town hall session.
"So, I get a phone call and it's about Social Security. And I'm really, I'm really not, I swear I'm not looking for a job," Bisignano stated, according to the recorded audio obtained by ABC News. "And I'm like, 'Well, what am I going to do?' So, I'm Googling Social Security. You know, one of my great skills, I'm one of the great Googlers on the East Coast."
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"I'm like, 'What the heck's the commissioner of Social Security?'" said Bisignano, who now leads one of the largest federal organisations responsible for providing retirement, disability and survivor benefits to over 70 million Americans.
Despite having no prior experience in government or with Social Security, Bisignano—formerly the CEO of fintech giant Fiserv—brings decades of leadership managing complex financial systems.
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Meanwhile, talking to employees, Bisignano reassured staff that Social Security is here to stay. 'This is America's safety net—it's not going away,' he emphasized. 'Guess who wants me to tell people that? The president.'
Bisignano's appointment sparked protests from some lawmakers and advocacy groups who feared his background in finance and corporate leadership signaled a move toward privatization. Demonstrators gathered at the Capitol earlier in May ahead of his Senate confirmation.
He acknowledged the backlash with a touch of humor: 'Did you know there was a protest against me?' he asked staff. 'I like that protest—I want to prove them so wrong. This is going to be the most fun I've ever had.'
Referencing his working-class roots, he added, 'A poor boy from Brooklyn, from a multi-generational household with a dad who worked in federal government—and now senators are picketing that I'm going to ruin it? No way. I'm here to make it great.'
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