Elon Musk targets Social Security fraud investigations

The Social Security Administration is facing challenges as it prepares for new leadership. Frank Bisignano, chosen by former President Trump, will appear before Congress on Tuesday to discuss his plans for the agency. Currently, the agency supports 73 million Americans with retirement, survivor, and disability payments. However, there has been growing concern about fraud. Billionaire Elon Musk has publicly questioned the integrity of the benefits system, alleging many people are falsely receiving payments. In response, the Trump administration's Department of Government Efficiency has begun investigating the agency's operations. They have assigned at least ten staff members to review its records. This effort has met resistance from experienced agency workers. The acting commissioner, Leland Dudek, has taken controversial actions that have caused confusion, including announcing changes that he later reversed. These developments have created worry among older and disabled Americans who depend on Social Security. Bill Sweeney from AARP expressed that many people feel anxious about the agency's future. He emphasized the urgent need for Congress and policymakers to address these concerns.