Biden Slams Trump-Era Cuts to Social Security Agency in Comeback Speech

In his first major speech since leaving office, former U.S. President Joe Biden strongly criticized the Trump administration’s decision to slash staff at the Social Security Administration (SSA). Speaking to disability rights advocates in Chicago, Biden accused his successor of undermining critical public services. “The Trump administration gutted this agency,” he said, referring to staff reductions and the closure of SSA offices under the Department of Government Efficiency—led at the time by Elon Musk.

The SSA, responsible for distributing $1.4 trillion annually to over 73 million elderly and disabled Americans, has faced operational strain following these cuts. Biden highlighted the contradiction between Trump’s campaign promises to protect Social Security and the actions taken while in office. His remarks signal a renewed presence in political discourse, particularly around the defense of federal welfare programs.