In his first public address since leaving the White House, Joe Biden leveled criticism at the Trump administration's management of Social Security, emphasizing its impact on millions of Americans.
Biden Critiques Trump Administration's Approach to Social Security in Chicago Speech
Biden Critiques Trump Administration's Approach to Social Security in Chicago Speech
The former president highlighted perceived threats to Social Security benefits, criticizing overarching cut proposals.
Former US President Joe Biden took to the stage at a disability rights event in Chicago, delivering his first speech since his departure from the White House. While he refrained from directly naming Donald Trump, his criticisms were clear and pointed, particularly regarding the administration's approach to Social Security, which he described as having been hacked apart under Trump's leadership.
Biden asserted that the government was “taking a hatchet” to Social Security, stressing the importance of the program, which provides critical support to approximately 67 million Americans, particularly the elderly and those with disabilities. He made it clear that Social Security is a “sacred promise” and criticized the current administration's cost-cutting measures aimed at the agency responsible for managing nearly $1.6 trillion in annual benefits.
The backdrop of Biden's remarks includes significant staffing cuts proposed by the Trump administration at the Social Security Administration (SSA), with plans to reduce approximately 7,000 positions. These planned reductions have sparked a heated debate, especially following comments from figures like Elon Musk, who has referred to Social Security as a “Ponzi scheme.” In contrast, Trump has previously claimed he would not target benefits for law-abiding citizens despite promising to crack down on fraudulent claims.
Biden's speech did not delve into his future political plans or the implications for the upcoming 2024 presidential election, instead focusing on a broader critique of the current administration's policies. Trump's press secretary responded to Biden's assertions, defending the administration's commitment to protecting benefits for eligible and law-abiding citizens.
Since leaving office, Biden has largely maintained a low profile, including signing with Creative Artists Agency earlier this year. Meanwhile, tensions around Social Security and other welfare policies continue to dominate political discourse as both parties position themselves for future electoral battles.
