In a recent press conference, President Donald Trump was questioned about whether any federal agencies or programs would be off-limits to Elon Musk’s new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Trump assured that Social Security would remain untouched, reiterating a long-standing commitment to protecting benefits for seniors, despite his administration’s notable changes in other areas.
Nevertheless, the DOGE team has arrived at the Social Security Administration (SSA), with Elon Musk making controversial claims about supposed “vampires” of 150 years old receiving Social Security payments. DOGE has begun placing its operatives in significant positions at the SSA, including individuals with past associations to controversial online posts and those with a “cut-first-fix-later” perspective.
DOGE’s initial actions included the reduction of 41 jobs and the closure of at least 10 local offices, moves largely overshadowed by other headline-grabbing news. This development is critical as many Social Security recipients depend on in-person services, and the closure of offices could severely impede access to benefits for retirees, individuals with severe disabilities, and impoverished children.
The SSA, located near Baltimore, operates over 1,200 regional and field offices—comprising nearly a fifth of all federal offices. Approximately 119,000 visitors rely on these facilities each business day, many of whom need assistance in navigating the complexities of the Social Security system.
Kathleen Romig, an expert on the program, emphasized the essential role these offices play in connecting people with government services. Research indicates that further office closures could significantly impact those with lower education levels, making it less likely for them to apply for assistance.
The White House has not commented on these developments, though press secretary Karoline Leavitt has accused the media of fear-mongering about the program’s future, asserting that Musk’s efforts are focused on addressing fraud and waste.
Supplemental Security Income and Social Security Disability Insurance recipients, some of the country’s most vulnerable and politically weak individuals, report long wait times and lack of staff, exacerbated by previous budget caps and staff reductions.
In light of these changes, some beneficiaries express concern over potential cuts. Bryan Dooley, a recipient with cerebral palsy, shared his fears about maintaining his independence if his local SSA office closes, emphasizing the difficulties of accessing services.
The situation in White Plains, New York, highlights these challenges. With office closures pending, beneficiaries will soon face longer travel distances for service. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand has expressed concern over the SSA’s lack of communication about further closures.
Leland Dudek, recently appointed acting commissioner of the SSA, confirmed his prior collaboration with DOGE. Dudek aimed to reassure staff about maintaining key services, though he also noted a proposal to outsource call center jobs, potentially impacting service quality.
DOGE’s approach has been more cautious at the SSA compared to other agencies. Nonetheless, some staff have started receiving reassignment offers, posing risks to service continuity and increasing case backlogs.
The SSA’s essential public-facing roles have so far been spared from layoffs, though there remains uncertainty about future plans that could include office closures and relocation requirements, complicating service delivery.
Morale remains a concern among employees, with prior surveys highlighting the agency’s struggles. The number of Social Security recipients continues to grow, intensifying the need for adequate staffing to support client services.
Martin O’Malley, former SSA commissioner, anticipates challenging times ahead for the agency under Trump and Musk. Despite ongoing efforts to improve processes and technology, the renaming of the U.S. Digital Service signifies potential delays.
Frank Bisignano, Trump’s nominee for permanent SSA commissioner, has yet to undergo confirmation hearings. Known for his background in finance and significant cost-cutting measures, his future decisions could significantly shape the SSA’s direction.
The unfolding situation at the Social Security Administration will depend on the administration’s stance and incoming leadership, as beneficiaries and staff alike face an uncertain future.