The Social Security Administration (SSA) is one step closer to having its first permanent commissioner in more than two years. On November 28, the Senate Finance Committee favorably advanced the nomination of former Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley as SSA Commissioner by a 17-10 vote. O’Malley was nominated in July for the post.

The SSA administers retirement, disability, survivor, and family benefits, and enrolls individuals in Medicare. Established in 1925, SSA is headquartered in Woodlawn, Maryland, outside of Baltimore. The Commissioner oversees a staff of nearly 60,000 employees. The field organization includes 10 regional offices, 6 processing centers, and approximately 1,230 field offices.

If approved by the full Senate, O’Malley would replace Dr. Kilolo Kijakazi, the Acting Commissioner of the SSA. She has served as Acting Commissioner since the July 2021 removal of Andrew Saul. Prior to his service as the 61st Governor of Maryland, O’Malley served as Mayor of Baltimore and on the Baltimore County Council.

Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden (D-OR) called O’Malley a “proven leader with experience running a large organization that millions of families count on,” in a statement of support for his nomination. “Social Security needs a confirmed commissioner in order to ensure Americans are receiving the best service possible for their earned Social Security benefits,” Wyden said.

It is unclear when the full Senate will vote on O’Malley’s nomination.