DOGE Restructures Social Security, Sparks Widespread Backlash

Recent changes to Social Security administration under the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk in the Trump administration, have sparked widespread concern among retirees, disabled individuals, and advocacy groups. DOGE has implemented workforce cuts, office closures, and new anti-fraud measures, including a controversial but later revised policy restricting phone applications for benefits, which critics say disproportionately harms vulnerable populations. Critics, including SSA employees and lawmakers, argue these actions are eroding public confidence and access to benefits, fueling suspicions that the ultimate goal is to privatize Social Security. Mistakenly declaring living recipients as deceased has also increased due to overzealous anti-fraud efforts, compounding service disruptions. DOGE and Musk defend these changes as necessary to combat fraud and increase efficiency, but many fear the measures are undermining the system's integrity and accessibility. The debate continues, with strong opposition to any move perceived as paving the way for privatization.