Former President Joe Biden returned to the public eye with a speech on

Social Security at a Chicago disability conference on April 15, 2025.

He criticized Trump-era efforts to cut the program and called for protecting

benefits for retirees and disabled Americans. But it was a comment from

Karoline Leavitt, the 27-year-old White House press secretary, that

stole headlines. She mocked Biden’s age, saying:“I’m shocked he’s

speaking at night. I thought his bedtime was much earlier.” While she

reaffirmed Trump’s commitment to protecting Social Security, her tone

sparked backlash online, with many calling her remarks disrespectful

and unprofessional. Biden’s speech reignited concerns over recent SSA

staff cuts, new ID requirements, and data-sharing moves involving adviser

Elon Musk, who once called Social Security a “Ponzi scheme.” Disability

rights attorney Jason Turkish said many of his clients are worried,

though some SSA policies have been softened under public pressure.As

debates over Social Security continue, Biden’s appearance and Leavitt’s

comments reflect deeper divisions on the future of the program—and on political decorum