Why reform Social Security before we reform other entitlement programs?
We know how to fix it. But everybody’s afraid of it. They fear the public’s wrath and they fear losing elections. For us to avoid solutions because we’re afraid of explaining Social Security to people is just wrong.
How will you get buy-in for Social Security reforms?
We can pussyfoot around and say, ‘Everything should be on the table,’ but if there’s nothing specific, we don’t know what people will accept. I believe they’re ready for it. I filed my bill in order to start the discussion.
How would you close nearly 20 percent of Social Security’s long-term funding gap?
By extending the retirement age. The system will go broke by 2037 if we do nothing; benefits will drop by 22 percent and keep dropping. My bill would gradually increase the retirement age starting in 2024. No one 50 or older is affected.
Can efforts to cut entitlement spending end differently than past failed attempts?
We can’t go on with debt levels over $14 trillion. My constituents are more afraid of Congress kicking the can down the road and America ending up like Greece with better plumbing. Everyone agrees we’re on an unsustainable path.
Is fear at work here?
Fear is driving us to have the adult conversation America needed to have for years. It’s important to reform Social Security especially for young people, so there are benefits later. They’re going to be retired longer than today’s retirees; they’ll live longer.