Biden Warns Trump and Musk Are Risking Social Security
Former President Joe Biden has raised serious concerns about the future of Social Security, accusing President Donald Trump and businessman Elon Musk of trying to weaken the program that supports millions of Americans. Biden made these remarks during a public event in Chicago, saying their proposed budget cuts and agency changes could lead to the first major disruption in Social Security payments in U.S. history.
“A Sacred Promise” to Americans at Risk
Biden called Social Security a “sacred promise” to working Americans who rely on it after retirement or when they’re unable to work. He warned that Trump and Musk’s new government policies could break that promise. The former president said the program has always provided peace of mind to American families, and cutting it would be both morally and economically damaging.
Musk-Led Agency Plans Deep Cuts to SSA
Under the Trump administration, Elon Musk now leads a new department called the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The department’s main goal is to reduce government spending, and it recently proposed cutting 7,000 jobs from the Social Security Administration (SSA) and shutting down several of its regional offices.
These changes could create massive delays in benefit processing and possibly prevent some Americans from receiving their payments on time. Biden said this approach is more about targeting the middle class and vulnerable citizens than truly saving money.
Musk Calls Social Security a “Ponzi Scheme”
Musk has been openly critical of Social Security. He recently described it as a “Ponzi scheme” and claimed that millions of deceased Americans are still receiving benefits. However, SSA officials and outside experts have pushed back against these claims, saying there is no proof that dead people are being paid.
Officials explained that outdated systems sometimes fail to properly update death records, which may make it look like someone is still alive in the system. But that doesn't mean any money is actually being paid out.
Biden Criticizes the Human Cost of Budget Cuts
Biden stressed that behind every budget line item are real people. “What do they think will happen to the 73 million Americans who depend on Social Security if these offices close or payments are delayed?” he asked.
He also warned that taking away government support from people who paid into the system all their lives is not just unfair—it’s cruel. Biden urged lawmakers to protect Social Security instead of tearing it down.
What Happens Next?
Democrats in Congress have demanded hearings to investigate the impact of the administration’s plans. They want more transparency about how the cuts will affect the system and whether these drastic changes are necessary.
For now, the future of Social Security remains uncertain, especially as the 2026 budget debate heats up. Biden and other critics say they’ll continue fighting to keep the program strong and ensure Americans get the benefits they earned.