Biden Slams Trump Administration for “Deliberate Cruelty” Toward Retirees in First Post-White House Speech
In his first public remarks since leaving the White House, former U.S. President Joe Biden on Tuesday delivered a forceful critique of the Trump administration, accusing it of “deliberate cruelty” in its handling of the Social Security Administration (SSA). The agency, which disburses post-retirement benefits, has reportedly seen significant staffing cuts under the current administration.
Speaking at an event in Washington, the 82-year-old Biden appeared composed and articulate, contrasting sharply with his performance during the 2024 presidential debate — widely seen as the moment that derailed his re-election campaign and paved the way for Vice President Kamala Harris to become the Democratic nominee.
“The last thing they need from their government is deliberate cruelty,” Biden said, referencing recent efforts to downsize the SSA. “Social Security is about more than retirement accounts. It’s about honouring a fundamental trust between government and people.”
Though Biden refrained from naming former President Donald Trump directly, he made several unmistakable references to his administration and key figures, including Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and billionaire adviser Elon Musk.
Musk, who heads the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), had previously described the Social Security system as a “Ponzi scheme,” drawing sharp criticism from Biden. DOGE, under Musk’s leadership, spearheaded efforts to slash government spending and reportedly cut around 7,000 SSA jobs — a move Biden condemned as “breathtaking” in its scope and impact.
In one pointed reference, Biden criticized Lutnick’s public dismissal of Social Security processing delays, notably referencing Lutnick’s comment that such delays weren’t a concern even for his 94-year-old mother-in-law. “That’s not governance,” Biden said, “that’s indifference wrapped in arrogance.”
Biden also indirectly criticized Trump-era tax policies that contributed to widening budget deficits, despite Trump’s campaign pledges not to touch Social Security. While the former president has long insisted he would protect entitlement programs, many Republican lawmakers and Trump-aligned officials have viewed the system as unsustainable and ripe for reform.
Despite his forceful address, Biden’s political standing remains fraught. He has become a divisive figure within the Democratic Party, with many members blaming him for failing to step aside early enough in the 2024 election cycle to allow a more seasoned candidate to emerge from a competitive primary process. While Kamala Harris ultimately secured the nomination, critics argue she entered the race untested, making her vulnerable against a resurgent Trump.
Biden’s address is seen as a potential first step toward redefining his post-presidential role. Whether it signals a larger political comeback or a bid to influence policy from the sidelines remains to be seen. For now, he appears focused on protecting Social Security — and on holding his successors accountable.
