Social Security Experts Warn of Elon Musk’s DOGE-Driven Reforms

Social Security advocates are raising concerns over recent actions by Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) that could significantly impact the Social Security Administration (SSA) and its millions of beneficiaries. The controversy centers around allegations of fraudulent payments, leadership shake-ups, office closures, and budget cuts that critics say could weaken the SSA’s ability to serve the public.

Musk Alleges Fraud Within Social Security

Elon Musk has claimed that the SSA is responsible for massive fraudulent payments, citing records that list beneficiaries between the ages of 150 and 159. Musk called it “the biggest fraud in history,” implying that funds are being mismanaged or directed toward individuals who are long deceased.

However, experts and former SSA officials have dismissed Musk’s claims as a misunderstanding of the system’s antiquated database. The SSA relies on COBOL-based software that can, in some cases, generate anomalies in birth records. Martin O’Malley, a former SSA commissioner, refuted Musk’s statements, calling them “unfounded and misleading.” (Source: SSA Official Website)

SSA Leadership Shake-Up Amid Data Access Dispute

Concerns escalated in mid-February when Michelle King, the acting SSA head, resigned. Reports indicate that King stepped down after refusing to grant DOGE staff access to private financial records of Social Security recipients. This refusal reportedly frustrated DOGE leadership, leading to her departure and the appointment of Leland Dudek as acting commissioner.

Dudek’s appointment has sparked criticism, with some accusing him of assisting DOGE in bypassing established protocols to access sensitive personal data. Civil rights organizations and Social Security advocacy groups argue that such actions pose serious privacy risks to American citizens. (Source: WSJ)

Massive Office Closures and Budget Cuts

In an aggressive cost-cutting move, DOGE has overseen the closure of more than 40 SSA offices across multiple states, including Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, New York, and Texas. This is part of a broader plan to terminate leases for over 7,000 federal office spaces in an effort to save an estimated $65 billion.

While the government argues that shifting services online will improve efficiency, Social Security advocates warn that millions of elderly and disabled Americans rely on in-person services to manage their benefits. The closures could leave some recipients without access to essential services, particularly in rural areas where internet connectivity is unreliable. (Source: SSA Office Locator)

Protests and Resignations Over DOGE Policies

The fallout from DOGE’s reforms has extended beyond Social Security offices. A wave of resignations has hit the U.S. Digital Service (USDS), with 21 federal technology employees—including engineers and data scientists—stepping down in protest. These former employees cited ethical concerns over DOGE’s handling of federal programs and accused Musk’s administration of seeking to undermine essential public services.

One former USDS employee, speaking anonymously, stated, “We couldn’t, in good conscience, continue working for an agency that is actively dismantling Social Security.” (Source: NY Post)

Advocates Warn of Data Manipulation Risks

Beyond office closures and leadership shifts, Social Security advocates are particularly worried about the potential manipulation of the SSA’s earnings records. Nancy Altman, a representative from Social Security Works, has warned that if malicious actors gain access to SSA databases, they could erase individuals’ earnings histories, thereby eliminating their eligibility for benefits such as Social Security and Medicare.

“Your earnings history determines what you receive in benefits. If that history is tampered with, millions could be left without the Social Security they’ve rightfully earned,” Altman explained. (Source: Social Security Works)

What Comes Next?

While DOGE insists that these reforms are necessary for efficiency and cost reduction, critics argue they pose a fundamental threat to the integrity of Social Security. Congress has yet to intervene directly, though several lawmakers have voiced concerns about DOGE’s overreach.

With the SSA already under strain due to an aging population and financial sustainability challenges, these latest changes could further complicate the future of the program. For now, Social Security advocates continue to push back, demanding greater transparency and accountability from DOGE and Musk’s administration.

As this situation unfolds, Social Security recipients are encouraged to stay informed and report any discrepancies in their records. Beneficiaries can check their earnings statements and benefit details directly through the official SSA website.

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