Former President Joe Biden made his first major public appearance since leaving office, delivering a fiery speech at a bipartisan conference in Chicago on April 15. Hosted by the Advocates, Counselors, and Representatives for the Disabled (ACRD), the event centered on protecting Social Security.
Biden didn’t hold back, slamming the current administration’s handling of the Social Security Administration.
“In under 100 days, they’ve done breathtaking damage,” he said, accusing officials of “taking a hatchet” to the agency and pushing out 7,000 employees.
He also voiced frustration over access issues:
“People can’t sign on to their accounts. Who in the hell do they think they are?”
Dressed in a sharp blue suit, Biden appeared energized and confident, drawing praise not only for his message but also for his appearance.
Social media lit up with reactions like “Biden looks refreshed” and “He’s had a glow-up.”
But the speech also drew political fire. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt mocked Biden’s age, saying she was “shocked he was speaking at night,” which triggered backlash across platforms. Many called the comments “disrespectful” and “juvenile.”
Biden’s appearance comes amid rising tensions over Trump’s recent cuts to the SSA and controversial moves, including handing data access to Elon Musk’s government efficiency team. Musk has referred to Social Security as “the biggest Ponzi scheme of all time.”
Critics, including disability advocates, warn these changes threaten vital services.
“There’s always been a belief that Social Security is off-limits,” said attorney Jason Turkish. “Now, people are scared.”
Whether it was his passionate defense or polished appearance, Biden’s return to the spotlight made one thing clear: he’s not done talking.
