Tue Feb 25 13:30:00 UTC 2025: **New SBA Head Loeffler Spars with Senator, Orders Federal Workers Back to Office**
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Newly confirmed Small Business Administration (SBA) head Kelly Loeffler has initiated a return-to-office mandate for federal employees, sparking debate. In a viral video tour of largely empty SBA offices, Loeffler cited President Trump’s order mandating a return to in-person work. The video, which has garnered over 17 million views, shows the vast majority of SBA employees currently working remotely.
Loeffler’s actions come after a contentious Senate confirmation hearing where she clashed with Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) over the legality of President Trump’s federal funding freeze.
The move has drawn mixed reactions. While some, like former Interior Department official Jeremy Carl, argue that remote work in the federal government lacks accountability, others, including market researcher Anna Matson, criticized the policy as harmful to families who rely on dual incomes and flexible work arrangements. Billionaire Elon Musk also commented on the situation, simply stating “No one at work,” on X.
Meanwhile, Republican lawmakers are urging Loeffler to investigate alleged misuse of COVID relief funds and taxpayer-funded electioneering during the Biden administration. The SBA’s new leader faces immediate challenges on multiple fronts, navigating political pressure alongside the logistical hurdles of implementing a widespread return-to-office policy.
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