Synopsis
In his first public remarks since leaving office, Joe Biden accused the Trump administration of 'deliberate cruelty' in the reduction of the federal agency responsible for retiree benefits, emphasizing the importance of social security as a trust between the government and citizens.Key Takeaways
- Joe Biden publicly criticizes the Trump administration.
- Accuses Trump of 'deliberate cruelty' in downsizing the Social Security Administration.
- Highlights social security as a crucial trust between government and citizens.
- Mentions cuts leading to an estimated 7,000 job reductions.
- Points out lack of support from both Trump and Democratic circles.
Washington, April 16 (NationPress) In his initial public address post-White House, former US President Joe Biden on Tuesday criticized the Donald Trump administration for its 'deliberate cruelty' in reducing the federal agency responsible for distributing post-retirement benefits to retirees.
At 82, the former president appeared aged but was far removed from the individual who participated in the pivotal presidential debate against Donald Trump in the summer of 2024, which ultimately jeopardized his second-term aspirations and paved the way for former Vice-President Kamala Harris. Despite relying on a teleprompter, he articulated his points with clarity and vigor.
“The last thing they need from their government is deliberate cruelty,” he stated regarding the actions taken by the Trump administration to downsize the Social Security Administration, the agency that allocates post-retirement benefits funded by taxes from employees and employers. This system bears a resemblance to India’s provident fund program.
“Social Security encompasses more than mere retirement accounts,” he remarked. “It's about upholding a crucial trust between the government and its citizens.”
While the former president did not explicitly name Donald Trump or his cabinet members and advisers, including Elon Musk, the billionaire advisor, he made clear references that left little doubt regarding his targets.
Musk was not directly mentioned, but his characterization of the social security system as a Ponzi Scheme (a fraudulent investment scheme that misleads investors into believing in non-existent returns) was noted.
The dismissal of delays by Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick as inconsequential for his 94-year-old mother-in-law was also referenced. Although Trump was not specifically mentioned, the deficits incurred from his initial term's tax cuts were.
Biden is understandably unpopular in Trump circles, but he also lacks support within his Democratic base. Many in his party hold him accountable for Trump's resurgence in the White House, arguing he overstayed his time and did not allow the party to present a strong presidential candidate through the primary process. They contend that Harris was untested and, thus, vulnerable.
Despite Trump's campaign promises to protect social security, a longstanding target for Republicans who view it as a financial burden, his administration's initiative against wasteful government spending, led by Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (abbreviated to DOGE, akin to a cryptocurrency), has resulted in an estimated cut of 7,000 jobs at the social security administration.
In reference to these reductions, the former president remarked that in 'fewer than 100 days (of taking office), this new administration has... caused significant damage and destruction that is truly astonishing.'
