Biden Returns to National Stage with Strong Message
Former President Joe Biden made a bold return to the spotlight on Tuesday. In his first major speech since leaving office in January, Biden accused President Donald Trump of slashing the Social Security Administration (SSA). He addressed a disability advocates’ conference in Chicago and warned that Trump’s cuts are hurting millions of Americans.
“They’ve taken a hatchet to the Social Security Administration,” Biden said. “It’s shocking how quickly they’ve done this.”
SSA Layoffs and Web Failures
Biden said the Trump administration laid off 7,000 SSA employees and plans to cut more. He warned these cuts are already causing serious issues. The SSA’s tech division, he said, has taken a big hit. As a result, its website is crashing and services are delayed.
“They’re trying to wreck it so they can rob it,” Biden said. “They’re moving fast and breaking things.”
Biden Mocks Trump and Musk’s Claims
Biden also called out Donald Trump and Elon Musk, who leads the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). He slammed Musk’s claim that Social Security is a “Ponzi scheme.” Biden mocked their false claim that dead Americans are still receiving benefits.
“I want to meet these 300-year-olds,” he joked. “Turning 40 is bad enough.”
Democrats Fight Back
Democrats are using the Social Security issue to push back against Trump. They blame DOGE for chaos inside the agency. Former SSA head Martin O’Malley said Biden’s past reforms have now been “wiped out.”
Biden Accepts ‘Beacon of Hope’ Award
Before the speech, Biden received the “Beacon of Hope” award from the Advocates, Counselors, and Representatives for the Disabled (ACRD). He called Social Security a “sacred promise” between the government and the people.
“It’s about peace of mind,” he said. “People worked for it. They earned it.”
Biden’s Future in the Party Remains Unclear
Despite the warm reception, Biden’s political future is uncertain. Some Democrats blame his late decision to exit the 2024 race for Kamala Harris’ loss. Many now want younger leadership.
“It’s never been this divided,” Biden said. “There’s a group out there with no heart.”
Trump Responds with Memo on Fraud
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt responded by mocking Biden’s age and schedule. She also announced Trump’s new plan to fight Social Security fraud.
Trump’s memo will:
- Expand SSA fraud prosecutions to 50+ U.S. attorney offices
- Investigate individuals 100+ years old with active Social Security numbers
- Reinstate civil penalties for fraud
“President Trump will protect Social Security for tax-paying Americans and seniors,” Leavitt said.
