Social Security Disabilities Advocate Senator Tom Harkin To Retire

Sen. Tom Harkin, D-Iowa, an ally for Americans with disabilities, plans to retire next year.

Last week, Harkin, 73, announced that he will not seek a sixth term in the U.S. Senate next year.

“When the current Congress is over, I will have served in the United States House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate for a total of 40 years. After 40 years, I just feel it’s somebody else’s turn,” Harkin said in a statement.

Disabilities advocates have expressed concerns over who will replace Harkin’s leadership.

“Harkin has been a huge champion in the disability community,” said Mark Perriello, president and CEO of the American Association of People with Disabilities to the website Disability Scoop. “Moving forward, I hope that we can find someone who can step into his very large shoes and it’s going to be difficult.”

Harkin often spoke of his late brother Frank, who was deaf, when he fought for rights for the disabled.

“Every piece of legislation that comes before [Harkin] asks, ‘what does this mean for people with disabilities?’ His dedication to our population is really second to none,” said Katy Neas, a former campaign staffer according to Disability Scoop.

Politics aside, media reports suggest that Harkin was an advocate for the disabled and a staunch supporter of Social Security Disability benefits. We wish him luck going forward. Many American’s with disabilities will never be able to work—lawmakers must advocate on their behalf.

If you have questions about applying or qualifying for disability benefits, contact a Tulsa Social Security Disability attorney for more information about your rights. We offer free evaluations of your case; you may reach us by phone at (918) 265-1404.

Troutman & Troutman, P.C. – Tulsa Social Security Disability attorneys

Categories

    I didn't think there was a caring professional considerate attorney firm on the planet, but Troutman & Troutman proved me wrong. From the receptionist to the legal assistance to the attorney and more they were exceptional people.

    - Robert S.

    They did a fantastic job getting everything gathered up and getting the trial done as quickly as possible. Anytime I had a question they were patient and help me understand what was going on. Especially Christy and Charlie were great.

    - Michael M.

    Steve Troutman was able to get my short-term and long-term disability for me. Then Erin another lawyer for their firm got my Social security disability for me. Great people.

    - Billy S.

    Mr. Troutman walked me through the entire process. Heather was available each time I called, answered all my crazy questions, and helped me fill out forms along the way. I was never treated like I was wasting time.

    - Julia C.

    Erin and Keith were fabulous! They were compassionate, helpful, and very responsive! They made the process very smooth and painless every step of the way.

    - Valerie W.

We Are Here to Help 

Free & Confidential Consultations
  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.