Social Security Administration Cuts Research to Save $15 Million Amid Trump’s Reforms

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Social Security Administration (SSA) announced the termination of its cooperative agreements with the Retirement and Disability Research Consortium (RDRC), a key body focused on policy research related to retirement and disability. The decision, delivered by Acting Commissioner Lee Dudek, aligns with President Trump‘s executive order aimed at phasing out government-funded Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives.

Dudek outlined that the SSA’s actions will contribute to a projected $15 million in savings for the fiscal year 2025. The funds are expected to bolster financial resources for taxpayers rather than support what the administration terms ‘radical’ government programs. ‘Terminating our RDRC cooperative agreements aligns with President Trump’s priorities to end fraudulent and wasteful initiatives and contracts,’ Dudek stated.

The RDRC, which involves collaboration with several academic institutions including the University of Michigan and Boston College, has contributed research essential for effective retirement and disability policymaking. The SSA’s decision raises questions about the potential impacts on ongoing research and future policy development.

Since taking office, Trump has prioritized dismantling DEI programs across various governmental departments. The move follows an executive order he signed upon entering office that directed federal agencies to reconsider their engagement with DEI initiatives, emphasizing a shift toward perceived cost-effective governance.

The termination of SSA’s agreements is a notable example of Trump’s influence on federal operations, reflecting a broader effort among agencies to adhere to the new directives. As the political climate shifts, courts may further complicate these initiatives. Recently, Judge Adam Abelson from Baltimore issued a preliminary injunction against Trump’s administration, preventing changes to existing contracts related to equity programs.

Among the plaintiffs in this case are the city of Baltimore and several higher education groups, which claim that Trump’s order may violate constitutional rights. ‘What’s happening is an overcorrection and pulling back on DEI statements,’ noted attorney Aleshadye Getachew during a hearing.

While the SSA’s cost-cutting measures could yield immediate financial benefits, experts warn that the long-term implications may not be as favorable. By severing its ties with RDRC, the SSA risks losing access to critical research that informs social security policies.

As the landscape surrounding DEI initiatives evolves, stakeholders within the social security community and beyond are left to assess the potential fallout from the SSA’s actions and the broader implications for federal research and policy approaches.