Trump Allies Concerned Over Musk’s Criticism of Social Security

WASHINGTON, D.C. — As President Donald Trump reassures Americans of his commitment to protect Social Security, comments from his advisor Elon Musk have stirred unease within the administration and among party members. Musk’s recent remarks, particularly during a conversation with podcaster Joe Rogan and an interview with Fox Business host Larry Kudlow, denigrate the program, describing it as ‘the biggest Ponzi scheme of all time’ and suggesting that entitlement spending should be curtailed.

The remarks have led to concerns among Trump allies about Musk’s high-profile media presence. A Trump adviser noted that some party members believe Musk needs to limit his media interactions or be more scripted in his messaging. ‘They see the comments as worrisome for senior citizens who rely on Social Security benefits,’ one adviser said.

During his discussions, Musk invoked a 2024 report from the Government Accountability Office, which estimates significant annual fraud losses within federal spending. He stated, ‘The waste and fraud in entitlement spending… is the big one to eliminate.’

A White House official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, expressed understanding of the concerns voiced by fellow Republicans regarding Musk’s remarks. ‘Of course, they don’t want their Social Security cut,’ the official said. ‘But the only concern they should have is what the president is saying and doing. We haven’t touched Social Security, and we don’t plan to.’

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reinforced this message, stating, ‘Any American receiving Social Security benefits will continue to receive them. The sole mission of DOGE is to identify waste, fraud, and abuse only.’

Mixed feelings also emerged from Republican lawmakers. Rep. Mike Lawler, R-N.Y., critiqued the decision to close a Social Security office in his district, labeling it ‘a slap in the face’ to constituents. He emphasized the need for improvements in service, rather than cuts. ‘Customer service is inadequate now as it is,’ Lawler stated.

Legislators are beginning to urge caution regarding Musk’s plans. ‘We need to be cautious about how we cut the workforce because customer service is inadequate now as it is,’ Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., said. He added that trims to Social Security staff could lead to further complications for seniors.

Furthermore, the proposed cuts to Social Security offices and support staff are alarming America’s older population and disability advocates. Nancy Altman, president of Social Security Works, emphasized, ‘What we’re seeing is an effort to undermine Social Security from within.’

Amid growing public backlash, the administration took steps to retract more controversial proposals from the Social Security Administration (SSA). Acting Commissioner Leland Dudek acknowledged the difficulties faced by the agency in another recent communication with staff.

In efforts to engender public trust, Dudek, referencing prior mistakes, committed to ongoing communication and improvement of services. He also announced plans to enhance technological infrastructure, aiming to prevent improper payments while streamlining processes.

However, despite reassurances offered by the Trump administration, many question whether Musk’s assertions mirror an underlying intention to reduce vital services and possibly privatize Social Security. This lingering doubt manifests in the political arena as strategists identify Musk as a potential liability heading into future campaigns.

As various factions within the GOP and Democratic Party unite against perceived threats to Social Security, statements from Musk continue to reverberate, compelling senior citizens and their advocates to closely monitor the administration’s forthcoming actions regarding entitlements.