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Impending Cuts to Social Security Raise Concerns Among Experts
Rachel Maddow recently issued an urgent warning following Donald Trump’s proposed reductions to the Social Security Administration (SSA), which include significant layoffs amounting to at least 12% of the agency’s workforce. These plans also involve the closures of numerous SSA offices across the United States.
On her show, Maddow remarked, “Traditionally, any attempt to undermine Social Security has been viewed as political suicide. We are at a pivotal moment where that belief is being tested. Trump is openly challenging this by announcing massive layoffs of SSA staff and planning to shutter local offices.”
In a related discussion on the “All-In” podcast released on Friday, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick made controversial claims about “fraudsters” exploiting Social Security benefits. He insisted that the government should not deprive deserving individuals of their benefits.
“Our focus should be on preventing funds from reaching those who do not genuinely require assistance, particularly those who may have been receiving disability benefits for an extended period without real need,” Lutnick stated. “It’s nonsensical, and many are likely working as well.”
Lutnick further shared a personal anecdote about his 94-year-old mother-in-law, suggesting she would not fuss over a missed Social Security payment, implying that those truly in need are less likely to make a fuss compared to those seeking to defraud the system.
Maddow responded to Lutnick’s comments by expressing disbelief at the implications of his statements. “In any other context, this would have dominated headlines across the nation. However, the ramifications of Trump’s commerce secretary’s remarks regarding Social Security can potentially lead to widespread hardship. It’s almost too much to watch unfold,” she commented.
The proposed cuts are anticipated to create greater obstacles for millions of elderly individuals and those with disabilities, forcing them to navigate the challenges of accessing Social Security services in person, especially as many offices are set to close. “Making it more difficult for seniors to receive assistance is hardly a compassionate approach,” Maddow remarked.
She also noted that these developments follow a federal court ruling that halted efforts by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to access sensitive Social Security data for the purpose of investigating alleged fraud. U.S. District Judge Ellen Hollander articulated that such actions by the DOJ felt like a “fishing expedition” lacking sufficient justification.
“While addressing fraud and mismanagement within the SSA is important, it does not justify unlawful actions by the government,” Judge Hollander commented in her ruling.
For further insights, viewers can watch the segment in the linked video above.
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www.thewrap.com