Speaking at the Advocates, Counselors, and Representatives for the Disabled conference in Chicago, Biden criticized Trump and Elon Musk over Social Security.
In his first speech since leaving office, Joe Biden reflects on Social Security while criticizing Trump’s policies and Musk’s involvement.
Biden addresses the importance of Social Security in his speech
On April 16, 2025, former president Joe Biden spoke at the Advocates, Counselors, and Representatives for the Disabled conference in Chicago.
Biden, now 82, began his address by reminiscing about his childhood and family. He then shifted to a critical issue: Social Security.
“You make sure folks get the benefits they earn after a lifetime of hard work, the work they do is more than just a profession, what you do, it’s a calling.”Biden emphasized.
He added: “73 million Americans receive Social Security, from the first pay check for their entire life they pay into social security and in return, they count on social security to be there for them when they’re going to need it”.
Additionally, Biden emphasized the importance of Social Security, noting that 73 million Americans have contributed to it. For him, breaking this trust is unacceptable
Biden criticizes Trump’s approach to Social Security
Biden used his speech to contrast his approach with Donald Trump’s, particularly regarding Social Security protections.
He noted the Trump administration’s proposals to cut benefits.
“During my presidency, we protected Social Security and made it stronger,” Biden stated. He pointed to efforts like securing $2 billion for customer service improvements and reducing wait times.
During his speech, Biden also addressed Trump’s controversial executive orders.
Biden pointed out that Trump’s approach aimed to limit Social Security benefits for certain groups.
He implied these actions would harm vulnerable citizens.
Biden’s frustration with Republican proposals to cut Social Security
Biden criticized certain members of Congress for their attempts to undermine Social Security. He mentioned proposals to allow Social Security to expire every five years unless re-authorized.
Biden said: “We also face the constant threat of some members, Republican members of the Congress to cut and gut Social Security – cut and gut it period – they want to let social security expire every five years – that was a proposal – unless re-authorized by the Congress.
“Who the hell do they think they are? ”
Biden stopped himself from continuing his critique, saying, “I will not go further or get in trouble,” but his frustration with the issue was evident.
Biden’s warning about the consequences of proposed cuts
Biden condemned proposed cuts to Social Security, calling them harmful to American citizens. He asked, “How do you sleep at night?” in reference to those pushing for these changes.
He also criticized the mentality behind such cuts, referencing the tech industry’s motto: “Move fast, break things.”
For Biden, these cuts were causing unnecessary pain for millions of people.
Biden vows to protect Social Security during his presidency
Concluding his speech, Biden firmly stated that no cuts to Social Security would occur on his watch.
He reiterated his commitment to ensuring the government works for the people.
“One of the most important jobs of any elected official is to keep our promises to the people,” Biden said. “And I will not allow this to be broken.”