Commerce Secretary Suggests Social Security Check Complaints Are From Fraudsters

WASHINGTON, D.C.—In an interview on the podcast All-In, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick claimed that only a ‘fraudster’ would complain about missing a Social Security check. His remarks come amid ongoing debates about the program’s potential insolvency and recent staffing reductions at the Social Security Administration (SSA).

During the podcast, Lutnick, referencing his 94-year-old mother-in-law, stated, ‘Let’s say Social Security didn’t send out their checks this month. She wouldn’t call and complain. She just wouldn’t. She would think something got messed up and she’ll get it next month.’ Instead, he suggested that ‘a fraudster always makes the loudest noise, screaming, yelling, and complaining.’

Lutnick’s comments sparked backlash, particularly as over 71 million Americans rely on Social Security benefits for their livelihoods. Critics, including elected officials, have pointed out that many recipients do not have the privilege of financial stability that Lutnick enjoys.

Independent Senator Bernie Sanders responded on social media, stating, ‘Secretary Lutnick: You are a billionaire. Maybe your mother-in-law wouldn’t complain if she didn’t get her Social Security check, but tens of millions of seniors struggling to survive would. They’re not fraudsters. They earned it. How out of touch are you not to realize that?’

Democratic Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York echoed this sentiment, saying, ‘Don’t call and complain when you don’t get your Social Security check? And if you do, you’re a ‘fraudster?’ This is the administration’s message to seniors who spent a lifetime earning these benefits.’

The comments come as the SSA announces the resumption of debt collection activities under the Treasury Offset Program, which had been paused since 2020. Meanwhile, in recent months, thousands of SSA employees were laid off as part of the Trump administration’s push to reduce the federal workforce.

An AARP spokesperson expressed concern over recent changes at the SSA, including a new policy requiring in-person visits for services previously accessible via phone. This change could disproportionately impact seniors and those living in rural areas, resulting in longer wait times and greater hardship.

As Lutnick’s remarks have raised eyebrows, the ongoing efforts to streamline Social Security operations under the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) have alarmed recipients and advocates alike. With reports of potential service reductions, many Americans fear for the continuity of benefits they depend on for survival.

In a statement after the podcast, Lutnick remarked that listening for complaints could be a method to identify fraudulent claims. However, his position has been criticized as disconnected from the realities facing millions of Americans who rely on Social Security.

As the administration faces growing scrutiny, the intersection of government policy and the welfare of vulnerable populations continues to be a focal point of political debate.