Context:

A recent AP-NORC poll reveals growing concern among older Americans about the future availability of Social Security benefits, with confidence levels noticeably decreasing among older Democrats since 2023. In contrast, older Republicans have shown increased confidence in the program's future, highlighting a partisan divide influenced by recent administrative changes under President Trump and commentary from his adviser, Elon Musk. The Social Security Administration is undergoing significant changes, including staffing cuts and office closures, further fueling uncertainty about its sustainability. This ongoing debate is expected to play a significant role in upcoming midterm elections, with both parties recognizing Social Security as a critical issue. Younger Americans, especially those under 30, remain skeptical about the availability of Social Security benefits in the future, a sentiment that crosses party lines and persists from previous years, regardless of the current administration's stance.

Dive Deeper:

• The AP-NORC poll indicates a significant shift in confidence levels among older Americans regarding Social Security, with about 3 in 10 adults aged 60 or older expressing doubts about the program's availability, compared to 2 in 10 in 2023.

• A stark partisan divide is evident, with older Democrats showing decreased confidence in Social Security's future, while older Republicans have become more optimistic, possibly due to recent administrative changes under President Trump.

• Elon Musk's comments labeling Social Security as a 'Ponzi scheme' have sparked controversy and concern, particularly among voters dependent on the program, affecting public perception of its reliability.

• The Social Security Administration is facing significant changes, including staffing cuts and office closures, which have intensified public concern about the agency's ability to sustain benefits, especially with its looming go-broke date in 2035.

• The importance of Social Security in political discourse is underscored by recent town hall meetings and its anticipated role in the upcoming midterm elections, as both Democrats and Republicans aim to address voter concerns.

• Younger Americans, particularly those under 30, continue to express skepticism about the future of Social Security, with approximately half lacking confidence in the program's availability, mirroring sentiments from previous years.

• A new SSA leader, Frank Bisignano, has been confirmed by the Senate, bringing a Wall Street perspective to the administration as it navigates these substantial changes and public scrutiny.