Trump advises Republicans not to cut Social Security and Medicare

Surprise, surprise. Donald Trump is advising Republicans that “under no circumstances should Republicans vote to cut a single penny from Medicare or Social Security.” Time will tell whether he would favor raising the age of eligibility for those programs or whether he would support cuts that happen down the road. Regardless, it’s not at all clear that Kevin McCarthy and the Republican House will heed Trump’s advice; what is clear is that they have never supported lifting the cap on Social Security contributions, the fair way to strengthen Social Security.  

For now, Trump’s message is direct. Republicans should focus on cutting foreign aid and initiatives to support a healthier climate. He also advises cutting “waste, fraud and abuse,” which Republicans like to talk about doing but only do selectively. (For example, they seem to have little to no interest in reducing massive overpayments to Medicare Advantage plans, which would save tens of billions of dollars a year.) Trump also suggests Republicans limit their cuts to issues like foreign aid and climate investments.

What is motivating Trump to say he opposes cuts to Social Security and Medicare? For sure it’s smart politics. It might also be a way for him to distinguish himself from Ron DeSantis, his adversary and nemesis. No question that DeSantis wants cuts to these programs; he has made his views perfectly clear. 

Of course, Trump’s expressed views are likely of no consequence for many Republicans. We know that Bill Cassidy and Angus King, moderates, are working on a plan that would weaken Social Security, while claiming it would help ensure the Trust Fund is solvent.

The smart way to strengthen Social Security is to end the Social Security tax break for the rich. Congress should eliminate the cap on Social Security so that all Americans pay in their fair share throughout the course of the year.

Here’s more from Just Care:

• Medicare oversight agency finds $40 billion in overpayments to Medicare Advantage plans in 2022 and 2023
• Trump appointees hold up stimulus checks to 30 million people on Social Security
• SSA actuary confirms Trump’s plan to terminate Social Security
• In the hands of Republicans, Social Security is at serious risk
• Congress should eliminate the cap on Social Security contributions in 2023