SE Kansas City News

Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, a U.S. Congressman representing Missouri’s 5th district since 2005, has voiced concerns on social media about recent federal economic and social policy developments under the Trump administration.

On July 31, 2025, Cleaver stated, "The Trump administration is now openly admitting their plan to privatize Social Security. Social Security is vital to the retirement and well-being of American seniors across the country—and we won’t stand for their effort to undermine the program!"

Continuing his criticism of current economic policies, Cleaver posted on August 1, 2025: "Inflation is rising, the job market is deteriorating, and economic growth is slowing. Today’s jobs report, including the massive revisions from the previous two months, is a clear indicator that the president’s reckless trade war and chaotic policies are hurting American workers".

Later that day he added: "The president has unilaterally raised taxes on American consumers and small businesses through his tariffs in an effort to revive manufacturing. Instead, after a manufacturing boom under President Biden, we’re now seeing manufacturers bleeding jobs."

Cleaver’s comments come amid ongoing debates over Social Security reform and economic strategy at the federal level. He represents Missouri's 5th district in Congress—a position he has held since replacing Karen McCarthy in 2005—and resides in Kansas City. Born in Waxahachie, Texas in 1944 and a graduate of Prairie View A&M University with a BS degree earned in 1972, Cleaver continues to be an active voice on national policy issues.