In his first major public remarks since leaving the White House, former President Joe Biden delivered a pointed critique of the Trump administration’s early actions—particularly targeting what he called a “hatchet job” on the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Speaking at a sold-out national conference of the Advocates, Counselors and Representatives for the Disabled (ACRD) in Chicago, Biden warned that moves made by the new administration in its first 100 days were already undermining the nation’s most essential programs.
“Fewer than 100 days, this new administration has done so much damage and destruction,” Biden said. “They’ve taken a hatchet to the Social Security Administration. 7,000 employees—7,000—out the door in that time, including the most seasoned officials.”
SSA Workforce Cuts and Data Access Concerns
Biden’s comments come amid reports that the SSA is undergoing major workforce reductions, with plans already in motion to cut thousands of positions. Critics say these cuts are affecting frontline workers, case processors, and disability benefit reviewers, which could delay access to critical services for millions of Americans.
Adding to the controversy, the SSA is also at the center of a legal battle involving the Department of Government Efficiency, led by Tesla CEO Elon Musk, which has reportedly gained access to large volumes of personal data stored in SSA systems.
Biden: “They’re Breaking Things to Rob It”
Biden avoided mentioning President Trump by name, but delivered sharp criticisms of his successor’s approach to federal governance. He compared the administration’s tactics to the tech world’s infamous “move fast, break things” mentality.
“They’re following that old line from tech startups. They’re certainly breaking things,” Biden said. “They’re shooting first and aiming later.”
He also echoed a line from former Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley, who served as Biden’s SSA Commissioner, saying:
“They want to wreck it so they can rob it.”
O’Malley introduced Biden at the event and presented him with the ACRD’s Beacon of Hope Award, calling Biden “a lifelong defender of Social Security.”
Biden Defends His Legacy
During his speech, Biden proudly reaffirmed his commitment to Social Security, calling it “a sacred promise” that he fought to protect during his time in office. He also poked fun at Republican claims that millions of centenarians are still drawing benefits.
“Those 300-year-old folks getting Social Security? I want to meet them,” Biden joked. “I’d like to know how they live that long. Hell of a thing, man.”
White House Responds with Pushback
In response to Biden’s remarks, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt took aim at the former president’s age and energy level.
“I’m shocked that he is speaking at nighttime. I thought his bedtime was much earlier than his speech tonight,” she said, before emphasizing that President Trump is committed to protecting Social Security benefits for “law-abiding, taxpaying American citizens.”
Leavitt also revealed that Trump will soon sign a presidential memorandum aimed at blocking illegal immigrants and other ineligible individuals from receiving Social Security benefits—a move likely to draw further scrutiny from advocacy groups.