Trump Administration’s Cuts to Social Security Agency Raise Alarms Over Benefit Disruptions

Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency faces criticism for drastic workforce reductions and alleged mishandling of sensitive data at the Social Security Administration.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) is undergoing significant workforce reductions, with plans to cut 7,000 employees and close numerous field offices under the direction of Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
Critics, including former SSA commissioner Martin O’Malley, warn that these cuts could delay or disrupt benefit payments for millions of Americans, particularly retirees and disabled individuals.
DOGE’s leadership, which includes individuals with little to no experience in federal operations, has been accused of prioritizing cost-cutting over service efficiency and data security.
A whistleblower lawsuit alleges DOGE agents sought unfettered access to sensitive personal data without proper vetting, raising concerns about potential data breaches and misuse.
Congressional Democrats have introduced legislation to halt agency closures and restrict DOGE’s access to SSA data, but they face resistance from Republican lawmakers and the Trump administration.