Biden, who has largely avoided speaking publicly since leaving the White House in January, gave an evening speech at the national conference of Advocates, Counselors and Representatives for the Disabled in Chicago. The former president was speaking as Democrats across the nation offered similar warnings for what they described as a Social Security Day of Action.
โIn fewer than 100 days, this new administration has done so much damage and so much destruction. Itโs kind of breathtaking,โ Biden said during a speech that lasted just under a half-hour. โTheyโve taken a hatchet to the Social Security Administration (SSA).โ
It was no coincidence that Tuesdayโs appearance, which marked Bidenโs first major event since leaving office, was focused on Social Security. Democrats have increasingly focused on Trumpโs turbulent leadership over the popular government agency that provides benefits to more than 70 million Americans.
Both parties expect Social Security to emerge as a key issue in next yearโs midterm elections.
Speaking before a crowd of roughly 200 people, Biden largely stuck to his prepared remarks but also rambled at times as he told stories about growing up with working-class people.