Post Reports Long waits, website crashes: Social Security is breaking down
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Apr 9, 2025 
Lisa Rein, a reporter for The Washington Post, covers the tumultuous state of the Social Security Administration. She discusses how recent political decisions have led to significant staff cuts and the introduction of inexperienced personnel, resulting in website crashes and long wait times for seniors. Rein highlights the troubling narrative around fraud that lacks substantial evidence, shedding light on personal stories of frustration faced by beneficiaries navigating the system. The conversation emphasizes the urgent need for accountability and reform within an essential program for millions.
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Dudek's Appointment
- Acting commissioner Leland Dudek shared data with Elon Musk's team (DOGE) without his boss's knowledge.
- After being put on leave, Dudek was appointed acting leader, raising concerns about DOGE's influence.
Dudek's Downsizing Strategy
- Dudek aimed to downsize headquarters staff by 7,000 jobs (12%) to bolster field offices.
- He offered early retirements and buyouts, intending to retrain some staff for frontline service.
DOGE's Aggressive Approach
- DOGE, with a private equity and software engineering background, is aggressively targeting Social Security.
- Their secretive operations, including blackened windows, raise concerns of a hostile takeover.