Kirk Commits to Fraud Prevention at Small Business Administration Confirmation Hearing
September 10, 2025 | Small Business and Entrepreneurship: Senate Committee, Standing Committees - House & Senate, Congressional Hearings Compilation
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William Kirk, nominated to be the Inspector General of the Small Business Administration (SBA), emphasized his commitment to integrity and accountability during a recent Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship meeting. Kirk, who currently serves as the acting chief of staff to the acting general counsel at the Department of Education, outlined his vision for the role, pledging to uphold the values essential to the SBA and to serve the 36 million small businesses that are vital to the U.S. economy.
In his opening remarks, Kirk stated, "If confirmed, I will work tirelessly to root out fraud, waste, and abuse, and to promote transparency, accountability, and the success of America's small businesses." He assured the committee that his investigations would be conducted without bias or political influence, emphasizing a nonpartisan approach driven by facts and the pursuit of truth.
Kirk's commitment to addressing the significant issue of COVID-related fraud was a focal point of the discussion. The SBA's Office of Inspector General has estimated over $200 billion in suspected fraud linked to pandemic relief efforts. Kirk acknowledged the need for efficient operations within the investigative arm of the SBA, stating, "I am committed to ensuring we have efficient operation of the investigative arm."
Senators expressed concerns about the SBA's handling of disaster relief, particularly in rural communities. Kirk responded affirmatively to calls for a thorough investigation into the agency's recent funding shortfalls, which he described as a "tragic situation." He pledged to ensure that the SBA provides adequate support to underserved areas in the future.
The meeting also touched on the importance of maintaining a productive relationship with Congress. Kirk assured the committee of his willingness to engage with lawmakers to prevent wasteful spending and to enhance the effectiveness of the SBA's operations.
As the nomination process continues, Kirk's commitment to transparency and accountability will be closely scrutinized, particularly in light of past controversies surrounding the removal of previous inspectors general. His responses to senators' inquiries reflect a readiness to tackle the challenges ahead, should he be confirmed in this critical role.
In his opening remarks, Kirk stated, "If confirmed, I will work tirelessly to root out fraud, waste, and abuse, and to promote transparency, accountability, and the success of America's small businesses." He assured the committee that his investigations would be conducted without bias or political influence, emphasizing a nonpartisan approach driven by facts and the pursuit of truth.
Kirk's commitment to addressing the significant issue of COVID-related fraud was a focal point of the discussion. The SBA's Office of Inspector General has estimated over $200 billion in suspected fraud linked to pandemic relief efforts. Kirk acknowledged the need for efficient operations within the investigative arm of the SBA, stating, "I am committed to ensuring we have efficient operation of the investigative arm."
Senators expressed concerns about the SBA's handling of disaster relief, particularly in rural communities. Kirk responded affirmatively to calls for a thorough investigation into the agency's recent funding shortfalls, which he described as a "tragic situation." He pledged to ensure that the SBA provides adequate support to underserved areas in the future.
The meeting also touched on the importance of maintaining a productive relationship with Congress. Kirk assured the committee of his willingness to engage with lawmakers to prevent wasteful spending and to enhance the effectiveness of the SBA's operations.
As the nomination process continues, Kirk's commitment to transparency and accountability will be closely scrutinized, particularly in light of past controversies surrounding the removal of previous inspectors general. His responses to senators' inquiries reflect a readiness to tackle the challenges ahead, should he be confirmed in this critical role.
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