1. United States
2. N.C.
3. Letter

Elon Musk's claims about widespread fraud in federal benefit programs like Social Security are alarming and unfounded. Independent audits have found no evidence of the staggering levels of improper payments he alleges. His proposal to slash critical safety net programs would cause immense hardship for millions of Americans who rely on these modest benefits to make ends meet. We urge you to push back against Musk's fact-free attacks on programs like Social Security, which provide a vital lifeline for seniors, people with disabilities, and children who have lost parents or guardians. Subjecting vulnerable populations to draconian cuts based on false conspiracy theories is unacceptable. These programs have low rates of fraud and improper payments, and already face underfunding that threatens their long-term solvency. Rather than pursuing reckless cuts, efforts should be made to strengthen Social Security and other essential benefit programs for future generations.