As Social Security turns 71, leading seniors’ advocate heralds the program’s success but warns that continued attacks will be an issue for voters in November

Before Social Security became law on August 14, 1935, more than half of America’s seniors lived in poverty. That number dropped to 35% in the 1960’s and now only 11% of older Americans live below the poverty line. “There are 71 years of Social Security success stories to celebrate on this anniversary and despite efforts in Washington to slash the program, there will be many, many more,” predicts former Congresswoman Barbara B. Kennelly, President of the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare. “However, in order to keep the promise of income security for retirees, the disabled and survivors, the attacks must stop.”

“Last year the President tried to convince the American people that Social Security was archaic and could only be saved by private accounts. This year we’re being told that Social Security and other entitlements are breaking the bank and therefore should be slashed. The National Committee and its 4.6 million members and supporters are concerned about mounting federal debt and deficits; however, Social Security private accounts do not alleviate the fiscal challenges facing our nation and we can’t balance the budget on the backs of retirement programs alone.

Older Americans continue to follow these issues closely and lawmakers will have to answer for their position on private accounts come November.”

For more information on the National Committee’s positions on Social Security, Medicare and other programs benefiting seniors and their families, go to www.ncpssm.org.