(WASHINGTON) — In his first public address since leaving office, former President Joe Biden sharply criticized the Trump administration’s approach to Social Security, describing the damage done to the program in less than 100 days as ‘breathtaking’ and ‘devastating.’ This marks a notable shift from his prior efforts to enhance and safeguard the program during his presidency.
During remarks lasting nearly 30 minutes, Biden refrained from directly naming his successor but referred to him as ‘this guy.’ His tone ranged from stern to urgent, particularly when discussing the implications for Social Security recipients. He stated, ‘In fewer than 100 days, this new administration has done so much damage and so much destruction. It’s kind of breathtaking that it could happen that soon.’
Introduced by former Maryland Governor and Social Security Administrator Martin O’Malley, Biden addressed an audience of roughly 180 at the Advocates, Counselors, and Representatives for the Disabled conference in Chicago. He emphasized the importance of social security, claiming that the current administration’s cuts could have long-lasting consequences.
Biden expressed concern over staffing reductions at the Social Security Administration, stating, ‘They’ve taken a hatchet to the Social Security Administration, pushing out 7,000 employees — 7,000 — out the door, including the most seasoned career officials.’
In his remarks, Biden called out Republican lawmakers, saying, ‘They wanted to cut Social Security. Not on my watch. We refused to go along with any of that.’ His comments came as Democratic leaders labeled Tuesday as a ‘Day of Action’ to bolster Social Security against perceived threats from Republican initiatives.
Biden also pointed to comments from Trump administration officials regarding Social Security, highlighting a statement from Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and criticisms from billionaire Elon Musk, calling such comments dismissive of the struggles faced by recipients. Biden remarked, ‘What the hell are they talking about? People earn these benefits. They paid into that benefit. They rely on that benefit.’
As the conversation around Social Security continues, Biden stressed the need for bipartisanship in protecting this critical program, asserting, ‘Who are we? What makes us distinct from the rest of the world? It comes down to basic, fundamental American values — nobody’s king, nobody’s the boss.’
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt responded to Biden’s speech earlier in the day, asserting that the Trump administration remains committed to protecting Social Security benefits for American citizens. Meanwhile, Democrats are actively organizing efforts to oppose cuts and ensure the program’s integrity amid ongoing political debates.
As the discussion evolves, Biden’s passionate defense of Social Security underscores the ongoing importance of this topic in American politics.
