The Trump administration, through the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), requested the Social Security Administration (SSA) to list over 6,000 immigrants as deceased. This action aims to cut off their access to work permits, benefits, and financial services, effectively encouraging self-deportation.
The targeted immigrants possess Social Security numbers and may have entered the US under programs that have since ended, such as temporary work programs. The White House claims these individuals are on the terror watchlist or have criminal records, a claim lacking further evidence.
The move faces sharp criticism, with former SSA commissioner Martin O’Malley expressing concern that it could be applied to anyone. Senator Ron Wyden highlighted the action as a potential theft of earned benefits, contradicting Trump’s claims of protecting Social Security. Elon Musk, though without evidence, also alleged misuse of the system by immigrants.
This policy change is likely to cause significant financial hardship for the affected immigrants and raises questions of due process and fairness.
The action has prompted concerns about the potential for misuse of the system, impacting the affected immigrants' financial stability and access to essential services.