Joe Biden accused Donald Trump and his billionaire deputy, Elon Musk, on Tuesday of attacking the social security administration as part of their effort to dismantle the federal government. Former President Biden, in his first public remarks since leaving office, did not directly mention Trump by name but attacked the administration for threatening social security, which he described as a “sacred promise” relied on by over 70 million Americans monthly.
Biden stated that in less than 100 days, the new administration had caused significant damage and destruction. He emphasized the importance of the issue for millions of retirees and disabled individuals who fear their monthly checks may not arrive on time or at all. Biden’s comments come as Democrats across the country held a day of action to raise awareness about the Trump administration’s plans to downsize the social security administration.
Biden argued that since Franklin Roosevelt’s establishment of the social security system, individuals have consistently received their benefits during various challenging times. He warned that this could change for the first time ever, which would be devastating for millions of families.
The White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, mocked Biden’s age in response to his remarks. Biden also made a joke about his own age, referencing Trump’s false claim that millions of people born over a century ago are still receiving social security benefits.
Trump has vowed not to alter social security, while congressional Republicans have accused Democrats of spreading lies about their support for the program. In response to Biden’s speech, the social security agency refuted several points made and reiterated Trump’s commitment to protecting social security and increasing take-home pay for seniors.
Despite Trump’s promises, the social security agency faces turmoil due to deep staff reductions, office closures, and policy changes under the Trump administration. Biden highlighted the profound psychological impact on beneficiaries and criticized Musk for referring to social security as a “Ponzi scheme” and Trump’s commerce secretary’s comments about his mother-in-law not missing her social security check.
Trump recently signed a presidential memo aimed at preventing undocumented individuals from obtaining social security benefits and expanding the social security administration’s fraud prosecutor program.
During his speech, Biden urged Americans to uphold fundamental American values and lamented the divided state of the nation. He emphasized the importance of fairness and stated that healing the “soul of America” was crucial, a message that resonated during his campaign for office.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/apr/15/joe-biden-social-security-trump-musk
