April 15, 2025–April 16, 2025 • 5 articles from 3 sources
Summary:Former President Joe Biden delivered his first major public speech since leaving office at the Advocates, Counselors and Representatives for the Disabled (ACRD) conference in Chicago on April 15, 2025. Biden criticized the Trump administration's Social Security policies, highlighting the reduction of 7,000 staff members at the Social Security Administration (SSA) and alleging intentions to 'wreck' and 'rob' the program to fund tax cuts for the wealthy. He emphasized the potential disruption of benefits and the impact on seniors and disabled individuals, citing website crashes and long wait times. The Trump administration countered via its SSA X account, denying benefit cuts, pledging protection of Social Security, and citing modernization efforts like a $16.5 million telephone service upgrade. Biden's address also included personal anecdotes on segregation and calls for national unity, while receiving the 'beacon of hope award' for his presidential achievements. The event featured bipartisan figures like former Sen. Roy Blunt and former Gov. Martin O’Malley, focusing on strengthening Social Security for future stability.
Left Angle:Left-leaning sources like CNN and HuffPost frame Biden’s speech as a vital warning against Trump’s destructive Social Security cuts, including 7,000 staff layoffs and tech disruptions, risking benefits for millions. X sentiment from left-leaning users echoes fears of privatization, with posts urging protection of this 'sacred promise' for retirees and disabled Americans.
Right Angle:Right-leaning sources like Fox News portray Biden’s speech as exaggerated and misleading, accusing him of lying about Trump’s Social Security plans. They note Trump’s repeated vows to protect benefits and SSA’s modernization efforts. X sentiment from right-leaning users defends cuts as necessary to curb waste, citing $72 billion in improper payments.
Left score reflects partial evidence of SSA cuts and disruptions, but lacks direct proof of benefit cuts. Right score notes Trump’s protection pledges, yet downplays documented staff reductions and service issues.