Former commissioner of the Social Security Administration ("SSA"), Martin O'Malley, warns US citizens about Elon Musk's mission to destroy the SSA. The SSA has been understaffed and underfunded for many years which causes long delays for people applying for benefits, and poor customer service. Musk is exacerbating those delays and poor service, as impossible as that seems.
Anyone who has worked and paid into the SSA system expects to receive benefits when they are eligible for them. If DOGE continues to interfere with the SSA, people will see even longer wait times, interruptions in receiving their checks, that they are unable to reach anyone to speak with at the SSA. DOGE is compelling the most experienced people to resign or be fired, leaving the agency in far worse shape than when he found it.
If you plan to apply for benefits, or already have a case pending, it could be years before you receive a decision. People who are unable to work due to medical impairments could be without income for years, which in some cases, can lead to homelessness, or even death. People who are collecting retirement as their only means of income will see their checks delayed.
DOGE is serious a problem. You are entitled to the money you have paid into the SSA trust fund if you become disabled. Benefits are not an entitlement, and you need to fight for it. Flood your senators and congressional representatives with phone calls to protect the SSA and your money. Make your opinions known at the town halls where they appear. Do not let Musk wreck the SSA.
By Susan Golden
