President Biden’s campaign released a digital ad on Monday targeting former President Trump over his recent comments regarding potential cuts to entitlement programs like Social Security and Medicare.
The ad features an interview with Trump on CNBC’s “Squawk Box” where he discussed the possibility of cutting funding to entitlement programs. Trump stated, “there is a lot you can do in terms of entitlements in terms of cutting,” when asked about his outlook on the issue.
The ad then transitions to a clip from Biden’s State of the Union address where he vows to protect Social Security and Medicare, stating, “Anyone who tries to cut Social Security, Medicare or raise the retirement age – I will stop you.”
The ad concludes with a message urging viewers to “Save Social Security & Medicare. Vote for Joe Biden.”
After the ad was released, the Trump campaign clarified Trump’s remarks, claiming that he was referring to cutting waste in entitlement programs, not cutting benefits.
The full quote from Trump’s interview includes him mentioning “theft and bad management” in entitlements, suggesting a focus on improving efficiency rather than reducing benefits.
Biden also addressed Trump’s comments during a campaign stop, criticizing Republicans for wanting to put Social Security and Medicare “back on the chopping block.” Biden reaffirmed his commitment to protecting these programs, stating, “I won’t cut Social Security. I won’t cut Medicare.”
The exchange highlights the ongoing debate over entitlement programs and the contrasting approaches of the two candidates regarding their future funding and management.