Proposed Social Security Cuts
Trump promised he would protect Social Security, yet Elon Musk is working to privatize it. Musk called Social Security, “the biggest Ponzi scheme of all time.” Social Security is a safety net for everyone in America in the form of earned income. If you are an American, you either have your Social Security benefits already or are looking forward to getting them. Social Security is retirement benefits, disability benefits, survivor benefits and Medicare (healthcare benefits). I will stand against privatizing Social Security.
A secret White House memo was leaked that revealed the Social Security leadership is planning to require anyone applying for benefits over the phone to also verify their identity using the internet or by visiting a field office in-person. This will be a hardship on people in the Second Congressional district due to limited access to the internet and very limited access to transportation. This scheme is the Trump administration’s way of taking away the money and benefits Americans have earned. It is a cut to Social Security benefits.
Know Your Rights as a Federal Employee: If you are a federal employee who has been terminated because of Trump's actions, consider these resources and steps you can take to help defend your rights as a federal employee:
- Visit the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) website for information on "Employee Rights and Appeals."
- Visit the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) website for information about "Prohibited Personnel Practices (PPP)" and the steps to file an appeal. Federal employees are entitled by law to receive a written notice of termination, as well as the effective date of separation. Other MSPB Sources: New Information Sheet on Probationary Termination (02/21/2025); and How to File an e-Appeal
- Request a copy of your "SF-50 Notification of Personnel Action" from OPM. This is a record of your employment history (e.g., positions, pay, appointments, etc.).
- Contact your union representative or human resources department for guidance. Also consider contacting your own individual attorney.
Share Your Story:
If you have been affected by the Trump Administration’s policies, share your story with me. Visit my website at https://benniethompson.house.gov/contact for a listing of my district offices.