Washington, D.C. – A Social Security expert has raised concerns about potential cuts to the Social Security program by Republican presidential candidates Donald Trump, Nikki Haley, and Ron DeSantis. Social Security Works, a watchdog organization, has criticized all three candidates for proposals deemed harmful to the Social Security Administration and its beneficiaries.
The comments come amid a backdrop of attacks between the candidates over their plans for the nationwide welfare program. Conservative Republicans have previously voiced concerns about the cost of Social Security, also known as the Old-Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance (OASDI) program, which provides pensions, disability benefits, and benefits for survivors of a deceased claimant.
Trump, in particular, has taken aim at both Haley and DeSantis for their positions on Social Security, with a recent political advertisement highlighting Haley’s proposal to increase the retirement age and DeSantis’s past support for raising the age at which Americans can collect retirement benefits.
However, according to Social Security Works, Trump himself has a history of proposing cuts to Social Security and Medicare during his time in office. The organization cited an infographic posted to social media, quoting Trump as saying that he would consider cutting Social Security and Medicare if he were to secure a second term in office.
Social Security Works President Nancy Altman criticized Trump’s accusations against Haley and DeSantis, stating that Trump projected his own desires onto his opponents. The organization also raised concerns about DeSantis and Haley’s positions on Social Security, saying that DeSantis wants to cut benefits for younger generations and that Haley supports slashing benefits for middle-class Americans.
During a recent Republican debate, DeSantis and Haley sparred over their respective proposals, with DeSantis criticizing Haley’s plan to raise the retirement age in light of declining life expectancy in the country, while Haley pointed out DeSantis’s prior support for raising the age at which benefits are given to older Americans.
These developments have raised questions about the future of Social Security under a potential Republican administration, with concern growing over the potential impact on retirees and individuals with disabilities who rely on the program for financial support. As the 2024 election approaches, the candidates’ proposals for Social Security are likely to remain a key issue for voters.