Former President Joe Biden made a high-profile return to the political stage Tuesday, criticizing the Trump administration’s deep cuts to the Social Security Administration (SSA). Speaking in Chicago to disability advocates, Biden condemned President Donald Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency—led by tech billionaire Elon Musk—for slashing SSA staff and shutting down local offices.
Calling Social Security “a sacred promise,” Biden accused Trump of taking a “hatchet” to a lifeline for millions. The SSA delivers $1.4 trillion annually to 73 million elderly and disabled Americans. Although Trump had pledged not to touch Social Security benefits, the DOGE initiative has triggered widespread concern. With plans to cut 7,000 jobs and close offices, users now face longer wait times and increased system outages. Biden highlighted the growing number of technical failures, warning, “People can’t sign on to their accounts.”
A March court ruling criticized the SSA for granting Musk’s team excessive access to private data, halting further data-sharing amid ongoing legal battles. Despite backlash, Trump’s spokesperson Karoline Leavitt insisted the president remains committed to protecting Social Security benefits for American taxpayers and seniors.
Democratic strategist Karen Finney voiced concerns that Biden’s re-entry could distract from growing criticism of Trump’s trade war policies. Biden, who dropped out of the 2024 race following a poor debate showing and left office with a 38% approval rating, remains a polarizing figure. Some Democrats blame him for Trump’s return to power after Kamala Harris lost the 2024 election.
Still, presidential historian Timothy Naftali said Biden’s voice carries weight, especially among older Americans reliant on Social Security. “He’s always been their champion,” Naftali noted.
Biden’s remarks underscore a growing political clash over the future of America’s most vital social safety net.