Former President Joe Biden returned to the national stage on April 15, 2025, delivering his first public address since leaving the White House, where he voiced strong concerns over the Trump administration's impact on Social Security. Speaking at the national conference of the Advocates, Counselors, and Representatives for the Disabled (ACRD) in Chicago, Biden highlighted the potential threats facing this critical program, emphasizing its importance for millions of Americans.
At 82 years old, Biden's appearance was a significant moment not just for him, but for the broader discourse surrounding Social Security. He aimed to elevate liberal concerns regarding President Donald Trump’s agenda, which many believe jeopardizes the health of the program. “As bipartisan leaders have long agreed, Americans who retire after paying into Social Security their whole lives deserve the vital support and caring services they receive,” said Rachel Buck, executive director of ACRD, underscoring the critical nature of Biden's message.
Biden's speech came at a time when the Social Security Administration (SSA) is facing significant changes under Trump's leadership. The former president's administration has been marked by cuts to the workforce, including a planned layoff of 7,000 SSA employees. Additionally, there have been controversial moves to tighten identity-proofing measures for recipients, which have raised alarm among advocates for the disabled.
During his address, Biden refrained from directly naming Trump, instead referring to him as “this guy.” However, he did not hold back from criticizing the broader implications of Trump’s policies. He stated, “In fewer than 100 days, this new administration has made so much ... damage and so much destruction. It’s kind of breathtaking.” This pointed remark highlights Biden's concerns about the rapid shifts occurring within the federal agency that oversees Social Security.
Among the audience were several high-profile speakers from both sides of the political aisle, including former Senators Roy Blunt and Debbie Stabenow, as well as former Social Security Administrator Martin O’Malley. They echoed Biden’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for a stable and successful future for Social Security. O’Malley remarked, “Social Security is a sacred promise between generations,” reinforcing the notion that the program is foundational for many American families.
Critics of Trump have pointed to the administration's ties with billionaire Elon Musk, who has called Social Security “the biggest Ponzi scheme of all time.” This controversial statement has reverberated through political discourse, further complicating the narrative surrounding Social Security. Biden addressed this remark during his speech, stating, “We heard others, empowered and emboldened by this administration, talk about Social Security; one of them called it a Ponzi scheme. A Ponzi scheme — what the hell are they talking about? People earn these benefits. They paid into that benefit. They rely on that benefit. And no one, no one, no one should take it away.”
As Biden spoke, he also criticized comments made by Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, who suggested that his mother-in-law would not complain if she didn’t receive her Social Security check. Biden countered, highlighting the struggles of those who do not have such financial security, asking, “What about all those?” This empathetic approach aimed to connect with everyday Americans who rely on Social Security for their livelihoods.
Despite the challenges he faces, including low approval ratings—just 39% of Americans viewed him favorably in January 2025, according to a Gallup poll—Biden's return to public life signals his commitment to advocating for Social Security and the disabled community. His recent departure from the White House was marked by internal party strife, as progressives urged him to step aside for a new candidate after a disappointing debate performance against Trump.
While Biden’s public appearances may be limited as he transitions into his post-presidency, his speech in Chicago represents a critical moment for the Democratic Party as they prepare for upcoming midterm elections. The focus on Social Security is likely to resonate with voters who are concerned about the future of the program, especially in light of recent administrative changes.
In the wake of Biden's address, reactions from the Trump camp were swift. White House spokesman Steven Cheung dismissed Biden's remarks as “incoherent,” suggesting that they reflected a “feeble mind” in a “rapid decline to new lows.” Cheung defended Trump's commitment to protecting Social Security, claiming that the former president has repeatedly promised not to cut benefits and to ensure higher take-home pay for seniors.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, Biden’s emphasis on Social Security may serve as a rallying point for Democrats and a critical element in the upcoming electoral battle. The stakes are high, as millions of Americans depend on the program for their financial security. Biden's call to action aims to unite various factions within the party and engage the public in a crucial conversation about the future of Social Security.
Ultimately, Biden's return to the national stage and his focus on Social Security reflects a broader concern about the vulnerabilities of essential social programs in the face of political change. As he navigates this complex landscape, his advocacy for the disabled and commitment to protecting Social Security may define his legacy in the years to come.
