Biden Calls Trump's Social Security Damage 'Breathtaking'

President Joe Biden delivered sharp criticism of former President Donald Trump during a campaign event on Tuesday, accusing his predecessor of causing "breathtaking" damage to Social Security. The remarks came as Biden sought to draw contrasts between their economic policies ahead of the November election.

Speaking to supporters in Pennsylvania, Biden claimed Trump's tax cuts for wealthy Americans and corporations weakened the financial stability of Social Security. "The damage done by the last administration is breathtaking," Biden said. "Instead of protecting this vital program, they handed out massive tax breaks to those who didn't need them, putting Social Security at risk for millions of hardworking Americans."

The president emphasized that Social Security remains a lifeline for retirees and disabled individuals, with nearly 67 million Americans currently receiving benefits. He warned that Trump's policies, if continued, could force future benefit cuts or raise the retirement age. Biden pledged to oppose any reductions to the program and instead proposed raising taxes on high earners to strengthen its funding.

Trump's campaign quickly fired back, accusing Biden of mismanaging the economy and fueling inflation. A spokesperson for the former president argued that Biden's policies have eroded purchasing power for seniors on fixed incomes. "President Biden's failed leadership is the real threat to seniors," the spokesperson said.

The exchange highlights a key divide in the 2024 election, with both candidates vying for support from older voters. Recent polls show Social Security and Medicare rank among the top concerns for Americans over 65, a critical voting bloc in swing states.

Economic analysts remain divided on the longterm impact of Trump's tax policies on Social Security. Some experts argue that the 2017 tax cuts reduced federal revenue, indirectly straining entitlement programs. Others contend that economic growth during Trump's tenure helped offset those effects.

Biden's campaign has increasingly focused on safeguarding entitlement programs, framing the election as a choice between strengthening social safety nets and risking their stability. The president has called on Congress to pass legislation ensuring Social Security's solvency without cutting benefits, though such efforts face stiff opposition from Republican lawmakers.

With the election months away, both candidates are expected to continue clashing over economic policies, particularly those affecting retirees. Biden's latest remarks signal his intent to make Social Security a central issue in the race, while Trump's team is likely to counter with accusations of fiscal irresponsibility.

The debate over entitlement programs comes as the Social Security Trustees' most recent report projected the program's trust funds could be depleted by 2035 without congressional action. While benefits would still be paid at a reduced rate, the looming shortfall has intensified political battles over potential solutions.