AFSCME Members Rally to Protect Social Security from Musk's Cuts

Ohio Activists Rally to Safeguard Social Security Amid Billionaire Threats

In the heart of Toledo, Ohio, a determined group of activists gathered to defend a crucial lifeline for millions of Americans. Among them was Sandy Coutcher, a dedicated advocate for people with disabilities in Lucas County, who continues her fight for justice even in retirement.

On a recent Tuesday, Coutcher joined forces with other activists and U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur to oppose potential threats to Social Security orchestrated by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by billionaire Elon Musk. Their collective concern is the preservation of critical benefits for retirees, survivors, and those with disabilities.

The looming changes, reportedly supported by Musk and the White House (and allegedly misrepresented), put at risk the financial stability of millions of Americans. Coutcher, affiliated with the Ohio-West Virginia AFSCME Retiree Chapter 1184, has been instrumental in advocacy efforts that recently led to the removal of restrictions on Social Security payments for public service workers.

Addressing the crowd, Coutcher expressed her concerns, stating, "Billionaire Musk and his allies in the administration are spreading lies about Social Security" and are "trying to defund and dismantle a program that keeps people like me afloat."

During the event, Rep. Kaptur highlighted the precarious situation faced by many seniors, emphasizing, “For more than 7 million Americans over the age of 65, at least 90% of their income comes from Social Security. Of those 7 million, almost half would not be able to afford the costs of food, housing or clothing without their hard-earned Social Security benefits."

This gathering is part of a broader mobilization of AFSCME members nationwide, who are actively working to protect Social Security and public services. As Congress enters a two-week recess, these advocates are leveraging the union’s Get Organized campaign to counter the proposed tax cuts and policy changes driven by Musk and his allies.