Issue Position: Social Security

Issue Position

Social Security must be protected for all Americans, especially those who are retired or near retirement age. The Social Security Trust Fund, however, faces significant financial challenges in the coming years. Without Congressional action, retirees could see reduced benefits as soon as 25 years from now.

The biggest strain on the Social Security Trust Fund is the simple fact that individuals live much longer lives today than in 1935, and the program has never truly been updated to keep pace with America's demographic changes. Successfully fixing Social Security means that Americans who retire in 2035 will not be faced with a system that was built for the world of 1935, but a system that has been modernized to meet the realities of the 21st Century.

While adjustments to the system must be made sooner rather than later to ensure the Social Security Trust Fund remains solvent, I believe any reforms must assure Americans they will get back from Social Security what they have paid into the system over their lifetime. I also believe that the current system should remain in place for those at or near retirement age, who would not have time to plan for any changes.

While Congress faces difficult choices in order to improve Social Security's long term financial outlook, I know this mission can be accomplished in a way that strengthens this vital government program.

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