AFSCME President Saunders Condemns Social Security Shutdown Threat

AFSCME President Criticizes Administration’s Social Security Decisions

In a sharp exchange over the handling of Social Security data, AFSCME President Lee Saunders has expressed strong disapproval of the administration's recent actions. The controversy erupted after a federal judge ruled against Elon Musk and his team, demanding they refrain from accessing sensitive Social Security information. This decision has triggered a series of escalating threats from government officials.

Acting Commissioner Leland Dudek responded by threatening to essentially cease operations of the Social Security Administration if Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) are denied access to these private records.

On Friday, Saunders did not hold back in his criticism. “For almost 90 years, Social Security has never missed a paycheck — but 60 days into this administration, Social Security is now on the brink,” he stated. Saunders further criticized Dudek, saying he was “compromising the privacy of millions of Americans.”

Saunders accused Dudek of intending to “shut down services that senior citizens rely on and plan debilitating layoffs, all in service to Elon Musk’s lies.” He described Dudek's threats to close the Social Security Administration as a reaction akin to a child who didn't get his way. Saunders warned that such actions could lead to widespread suffering among retirees and families.

The stakes are high for the many retirees and workers who depend on Social Security. Millions of Americans rely on these benefits to sustain their livelihoods, and any disruption could have severe consequences. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how these tensions will impact the future of Social Security and those who depend on it.