Story perspectives

Lawmakers Slam Trump's Plan to Cut Disability Benefits

10/25/2025

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Wasserman Schultz Critiques

U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.) criticized a plan by U.S. President Donald Trump that could cut disability benefits.
The plan would eliminate age qualifications for benefits and risk hundreds of thousands losing support.
The Social Security Administration announced a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment for 2026, benefiting 71 million recipients.
In Massachusetts, Gov. Maura Healey urged U.S. President Donald Trump to reverse plans to halt SNAP benefits amid a government shutdown.

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Seniors Receive Adjustment

The Social Security Administration announced a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment for 2026, benefiting 75 million Americans.
The average increase is about $56 per month, while Medicare Part B premiums are projected to rise 11.6%, potentially consuming much of the COLA.
A National Council on Aging (NCOA) study finds 80% of seniors lack resources for financial shocks.
Living costs vary across the United States, changing how far benefits stretch by region.

History

Historical Context

The Social Security Amendments of 1972 significantly expanded benefits, introducing cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) for over 20 million Americans. This legislation replaced state-run assistance programs with the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, ensuring financial support for low-income individuals. Current debates over potential cuts to disability benefits reflect ongoing tensions between fiscal policy and social welfare, impacting millions reliant on government support.

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Wasserman Schultz Critiques

U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.) criticized a plan by U.S. President Donald Trump that could cut disability benefits.
The plan would eliminate age qualifications for benefits and risk hundreds of thousands losing support.
The Social Security Administration announced a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment for 2026, benefiting 71 million recipients.
In Massachusetts, Gov. Maura Healey urged U.S. President Donald Trump to reverse plans to halt SNAP benefits amid a government shutdown.

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