David Weprin Statement on the 76th Anniversary of Social Security

Statement

David Weprin, Democratic candidate for Congress in New York's Ninth Congressional District, today released this statement commemorating the 76th Anniversary of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt signing the Social Security Act into law.

"As we celebrate the 76th Birthday of Social Security, it is important we reflect on all that this
monumental legislation has achieved.

Social Security is one of the most popular and successful social programs our nation has ever implemented. More than a retirement program for our nation's seniors, it is a lifeline that millions of Americans depend on each and every day. From purchasing groceries to paying rent, Social Security is our nation's promise that we will not let those must vulnerable fall into poverty and despair. Social Security has dramatically decreased the poverty rate for Americans older than 65, lifted millions out of poverty, and protected the health, safety, and welfare of countless Americans.

Over the course of three-quarters of a century, Social Security has remained a cornerstone of government as we continuously fight to protect not just the program itself, but what it represents: our core belief in protecting Americans from the tyranny of poverty.

Roosevelt said of Social Security, "we can never insure 100 percent of the population against 100 percent of the hazards and vicissitudes of life, we have tried to frame a law which will give some measure of protection to the average citizen and to his family against the loss of a job and against poverty-stricken old age." Well, Mr. President, 76 years later, millions of Americans have been saved from poverty and insecurity because of Social Security.

Both now and in the future, countless Americans will look to Social Security to be there when they need it most. Now more than ever, we must honor the words of President Roosevelt and ensure that Social Security will always be there for all those who need it."

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