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    THE NATIONAL COMMITTEE TO PRESERVE SOCIAL SECURITY AND MEDICARE
    ~ Celebrating 25 Years of Advocacy for Older Americans ~

    August 13, 2008

    NEWS RELEASE

    Celebrating 73 Years of Social Security Success Stories

    National Seniors Advocate Urges Presidential and Congressional Candidates to Put an End to Polarizing Privatization Politics

    “As FDR himself once said…'Repetition does not transform a lie into a truth'. That statement is as true today as it was when Social Security was created 73 years ago. Just because those who are fundamentally opposed to Social Security continue to say it's a failed program, doesn't mean it's true. Social Security is not bankrupt and not in crisis; however it has been under attack.  Our members hope a new Congress and a new President will put Washington's focus back where it should be...preserving Social Security for future generations not dismantling the program through privatization ”...Barbara B. Kennelly, President/CEO

    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 about 10% of older Americans live below the poverty line.  For many retirees, Social Security provides the only stable and predictable income in this uncertain economy where shrinking investments, rising food and fuel costs and skyrocketing healthcare expenses make living on a fixed income increasingly difficult.  Mrs. Kennelly added,

    “National Committee members do not believe America ‘can't afford' Social Security.  We know the truth is our nation can't afford not to have the safety net Social Security has provided and continues to provide for millions of retirees, the disabled and their families.  As we celebrate Social Security's anniversary and prepare for another Election Day, candidates should remember that millions of Americans are counting on the guarantee of Social Security, not the risk of private accounts”.  

    Media Inquiries to:
    Pamela Causey 202-216-8378/202-236-2123
    Kim Wright 202-216-8414
    www.ncpssm.org

     

    The National Committee is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that acts in the interests of its membership through advocacy, education, services, grassroots efforts and the leadership of the board of directors and professional staff. The work of the National Committee is directed toward developing better-informed citizens and voters.