Issue Position: Strengthing Social Security and Medicare: Securing Retirement Investment & the Long Term Healthcare of American Workers

Issue Position

Payroll contributions allow American workers to invest in their future through the Social Security and Medicare programs. While many rely upon these investments to meet their needs into retirement, unfortunately both programs continue to experience financial pressures, which jeopardize the ability for individuals to fully benefit from the promises that have been made to them.

While the long-term solvency of these programs must be addressed, we must ensure that seniors and beneficiaries are protected. I oppose efforts to reduce benefits for those already enrolled in Medicare and receiving Social Security.

For those who are younger and not close to retirement, we must realize that the Social Security Trust Fund becomes insolvent in 2038 and the Medicare Hospital Fund by 2024. This means these programs will be taking in fewer contributions than then benefits they are obligated to pay out and as a result, levels of care and benefits would be reduced. This is unacceptable. In Congress I will continue to work with both Democrats and Republicans to ensure that Social Security and Medicare are preserved for future generations.

"I appreciate Congressman Thompson standing up for seniors and retired Americans. His efforts to save Medicare and Social Security are real and will help future generations."
--Bernie Williams, Retired Teacher, Erie County

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