Bill Briggs confirms nomination as SBA deputy administrator advocating for small businesses

The U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business & Entrepreneurship convened on March 12, 2025, to discuss the nominations of William Briggs for Deputy Administrator of the Small Business Administration (SBA) and Dr. Casey Mulligan for Chief Counsel for Advocacy at the SBA. The meeting commenced with a formal swearing-in ceremony for the nominees, a customary practice of the committee.

Mr. Briggs, nominated by President Trump, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve America's small businesses, which he described as the backbone of the economy. He highlighted his previous experience in the SBA, particularly his role in overseeing the Paycheck Protection Program, which he noted helped save 11 million small business jobs during the pandemic. Briggs emphasized the importance of small businesses in driving economic growth and innovation, citing the positive impact of tax cuts and deregulation during the previous administration.

Dr. Mulligan, who has a background as chief economist for the White House Council of Economic Advisors and owns two small businesses, also provided testimony. He holds a Bachelor of Arts from Harvard University and a PhD in Economics from the University of Chicago. His experience in both public service and private enterprise positions him well for the role he has been nominated for.

The committee members were informed about the nominees' qualifications and their commitment to supporting small businesses. Both nominees were encouraged to limit their oral remarks to five minutes, with their full written statements included in the official record.

The meeting underscored the administration's focus on revitalizing small businesses and fostering an environment conducive to entrepreneurship. The committee's discussions set the stage for further evaluation of the nominees' capabilities to advance the SBA's mission.