Working Together to Strengthen Social Security

WORKING TOGETHER TO STRENGTHEN SOCIAL SECURITY -- (House of Representatives - June 24, 2005)

(Mr. WILSON of South Carolina asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, President Bush and Republicans are working hard to protect Social Security for today's retirees and strengthen the program for future generations. This week Republicans offered several positive proposals that will help solve the problems plaguing Social Security.

However, to ensure that we find a lasting solution, Democrats should join us at the negotiating table. On Wednesday, The Washington Post editorial page questioned: ``Democrats need to ask themselves, now what? Is it enough to keep sticking their fingers in their ears while saying no? Failing to act now will make the problem harder to fix down the road. Cuts or tax increases will have to be steeper the longer the problem goes unaddressed.''

President Bush has invited Democrats to share their ideas on Social Security, but unfortunately his request has been met with silence or obstruction. While inaction may be politically safe, it does not help the millions of Americans who rely on Social Security.

In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11.

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