March 31, 2025 | Washington, D.C. — Independent Senator Angus King (Maine) has issued a stark warning about the state of the Social Security Administration (SSA), accusing the Trump administration of orchestrating what he calls the “destruction of the agency from the inside out.”
King’s alarm follows a series of controversial moves, including the closure of 26 Social Security field offices and the dismissal of 7,000 employees in February 2025—actions that he says directly threaten the lifeline for over 70 million Americans who rely on Social Security for essentials like food, housing, and medicine.
“This is the most direct assault on this vital program in its almost 100-year history,” King said in an official press release. “It’s disrespectful, destructive, and dangerous.”
Cuts and Closures Shake SSA
The Trump administration’s restructuring, reportedly spearheaded by the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)—headed by entrepreneur Elon Musk—has sparked intense criticism from lawmakers and public policy experts.
DOGE claims its aim is to streamline government operations and cut waste. However, the drastic personnel reductions and widespread office closures are having tangible effects. Americans, especially the elderly and disabled, are reporting increased wait times, reduced in-person support, and confusion about benefit processing.
According to Social Security data, nearly 90% of retirees depend on Social Security for some portion of their income. Disruptions in service could have serious implications for vulnerable populations.
Commissioner Resigns Over Data Dispute
Further escalating tensions, acting SSA Commissioner Michelle King resigned last week after refusing a DOGE directive to provide access to sensitive beneficiary information. King reportedly feared this would violate federal data protection laws and compromise the privacy of millions of Social Security recipients.
Her resignation was first reported by AP News. King’s replacement, Leland Dudek, has been temporarily installed while President Trump nominated Frank Bisignano, the current Fiserv CEO, to lead the SSA permanently.
The White House has not commented publicly on the commissioner’s departure or the data-sharing controversy.
“Fraudsters Are Complaining,” Says Commerce Secretary
In a controversial statement, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnik dismissed growing public concern about missed or delayed Social Security payments, stating, “Only fraudsters complain when the system becomes more efficient.”
The comment drew widespread criticism, with King calling it a blatant disregard for the experiences of ordinary Americans. “This isn’t a startup where you can ‘move fast and break things,’” King said. “This is a sacred trust. It’s not Instagram. It’s Social Security.”
The Social Security Administration has not confirmed how the staff layoffs or office closures will impact payment timelines or customer service moving forward.
Growing Political Pressure
King’s remarks echo a growing bipartisan concern in Congress over the management of SSA. Lawmakers are now calling for investigations into DOGE’s role, as well as protective measures to ensure Social Security remains insulated from political or commercial interference.
“What’s going on is the destruction of the agency from the inside out—and it’s accelerating,” King told reporters. “We need immediate action to protect the integrity of the program.”
What This Means for Recipients
If you are a current Social Security recipient or are planning to apply, here are a few recommendations:
- Check for Office Changes: Visit the SSA Office Locator to confirm if your local office is still open.
- Use Online Services: The SSA encourages the use of its online portal to reduce reliance on in-person services.
- Beware of Scams: With administrative upheaval, fraudsters may try to exploit confusion. Always verify communications through the SSA’s fraud prevention page.
Conclusion
Senator King’s urgent plea sheds light on what many fear could become a major national crisis if corrective actions are not taken soon. As political leaders debate the future of Social Security, millions of Americans anxiously wait, hoping their next payment arrives without interruption.
For more information, visit the official Social Security Administration website, or contact your Congressional representative.
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