Joe Biden Gives First Speech Since Leaving Office at a Chicago Conference, Sparking Buzz over His Appearance

Joe Biden made a rare public appearance on Tuesday, April 15, causing a stir over his appearance as he delivered his first formal address since leaving office at a bipartisan conference in Chicago.

The event, held at the Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile, was hosted by Advocates, Counselors, and Representatives for the Disabled (ACRD) and centered on the protection of Social Security.

During his address, Biden criticized the current administration’s handling of the Social Security Administration. “Fewer than 100 days, this administration has done so much damage, and so much destruction – it’s kind of breathtaking it could happen that soon,” he stated.

He specifically pointed to cuts and changes within the agency, claiming, “They’ve taken a hatchet to the Social Security, pushing 7,000 employees out the door.”

Biden also commented on reported access issues, “People can’t sign on to their accounts.” He added, “Who in the hell do they think they are?”

Continuing his remarks, the former president alleged ulterior motives behind the changes, “They’re shooting first and aiming later. They want to wreck it so they can rob it. Why do they want to rob it? In order to give tax cuts to billionaires and big corporations.”

The former president wore a deep blue suit, white shirt, and matching blue tie as he stood before a backdrop of American flags and the ACRD logo.

His silver hair was neatly styled, and he appeared focused and composed at the podium. Several attendees watched intently as he delivered his speech, standing confidently behind a black lectern.

Photos from the event show Biden addressing the crowd with visible energy, using hand gestures to emphasize key points during his remarks. The setting included two teleprompters and a U.S. presidential seal on display, emphasizing the formal nature of his appearance.

Biden’s appearance quickly sparked widespread discussion across social media platforms. Many viewers expressed surprise and admiration at how he looked during the event.

On X, one person wrote, “Biden looks younger.” Another added, “Biden looks good and refreshed.”

Comments on YouTube also followed suit. One viewer wrote, “Holy moly he looks healthy and stress free again. This proves how the Presidency takes a toll on you [sic].”

Another said, “I miss you, Joe Biden. You look wonderful.” A separate comment read, “He looks freshed. I’m glad he has had a minute to take a break [sic].” One viewer noted, “He’s had some work done.”

On Instagram, emotional reactions accompanied praise for the former president. One person commented, “Omg. I miss him so much. We are scared over here.” Another wrote, “President Biden is so Amazing [sic].”

Biden’s first public speech since leaving office drew attention not only for its content but also for the attention his appearance received online.

As he re-entered the spotlight at the Chicago conference, his presence left an impression on supporters and observers alike — both for his words and for how he looked delivering them.

Earlier in the day, the 36th White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt took a shot at Biden, sparking backlash and stirring debate over political decorum.

In her statement, Leavitt remarked, “My first reaction when seeing former President Biden was speaking tonight was, I’m shocked that he is speaking at nighttime. I thought his bedtime was much earlier than his speech tonight.”

The 27-year-old further stated, “I understand the topic of his speech will be Social Security. Let me make it very clear ahead of former President Biden’s remarks — President Trump is absolutely certain about protecting Social Security benefits for law-abiding, tax-paying American citizens and seniors who have paid into this program.”

“He will always protect this program. He campaigned on it. He protected it in his first term, and he’s back again to continue protecting it,” concluded Leavitt, who happens to be the youngest White House press secretary to date.

The first part of Leavitt’s statement — a jab at Biden’s age and energy — sparked widespread backlash across social media platforms, with many calling her words disrespectful and unprofessional.

On Facebook, several people condemned her tone. One person wrote, “Very rude. She’s talking about a former US President. He deserves at least respect!”

Another commented, “Ok, so, although I do usually like her blunt nature, however, this was immature and disrespectful. I did not care for President Biden, but he was still our President, and he is still a person [sic].”

One netizen said, “Inappropriate.” Another commenter added, “So juvenile, disrespectful, and classless.” One more person commented, “That is just so wrong to say, didn’t need! But I am not surprised from you [sic]!”

On Instagram, reactions were equally strong. One person wrote, “She does a great job, but don’t think her comments are appropriate. Should be above that [sic].”

Another added, “Karoline, you crossed the line!” One netizen remarked, “So unnecessary for a person in her position to speak like this.”

The backdrop to Biden’s appearance includes recent and controversial moves by Donald Trump’s administration affecting the Social Security Administration (SSA). Upon returning to office, President Trump initiated government workforce cuts, which included plans to lay off 7,000 SSA employees.

Additional policy changes have have resulted in tighter identity-verification requirements and a data-sharing initiative involving the Department of Government Efficiency, led by adviser Elon Musk.

Musk, who has described Social Security as “the biggest Ponzi scheme of all time,” has drawn attention to the administration’s efforts to streamline operations.

However, some of these actions have been met with legal challenges and growing public concern. A lawsuit was filed after the SSA granted Musk’s department access to individuals’ Social Security data.

Meanwhile, recipients have reported issues ranging from increased wait times on SSA’s helpline to incorrect notifications about benefit status.

While the agency attributed some issues to system errors, concerns remain, especially among Supplemental Security Income recipients, including disabled individuals and low-income households.

Attorney Jason Turkish, who attended the ACRD event and represents one of the country’s largest disability law firms, said many of his 32,000 clients are anxious. “We go from Republican to Democrat, Democrat to Republican and there’s always been a belief that Social Security is just something we do not touch,” he stated.

Despite the turmoil, Turkish expressed cautious optimism. He noted that SSA officials had walked back certain identity verification requirements and acknowledged ongoing modernization efforts at the agency.

Biden’s return to the spotlight came three months after his farewell address on January 15, 2025. At the time, he spoke directly to the American people, expressing hope for the country’s future.

“And my eternal thanks to you, the American people. After 50 years of public service, I give you my word, I still believe in the idea for which this nation stands, a nation where the strengths of our institutions and the character of our people matter and must endure,” he said.

In that same speech, Biden urged Americans to continue upholding democratic values, “Now it’s your turn to stand guard. May you all be the keeper of the flame. May you keep the faith. I love America. You love it too. God bless you all. And may God protect our troops.”

As he concluded his term, he stated, “You know, it will take time to feel the full impact of all we’ve done together. But the seeds are planted, and they’ll grow and they’ll bloom for decades to come.”

Biden also voiced support for a peaceful transition, adding, “I wish the incoming administration success, because I want America to succeed. That’s why I’ve upheld my duty to ensure a peaceful and orderly transition of power to ensure we lead by the power of our example.”

Karoline Leavitt’s reaction to Joe Biden’s return to the public stage sparked strong public responses and underscored the political tensions surrounding Social Security.

As debates continue over the program’s future, Biden’s appearance and Leavitt’s remarks reflect the broader national conversation on leadership, policy direction, and public accountability.