“A true fighter for Floridians and Older Americans Everywhere”

The National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare has enthusiastically endorsed Senator Bill Nelson (D-FL) for re-election in November.  The three-term Florida Senator will face Republican Governor Rick Scott, who announced his candidacy today.

“We need a fighter like Bill Nelson in the U.S. Senate. He is a key ally for protecting and expanding programs that seniors in Florida – and across the nation – depend upon for basic health and financial security.  When Senator Nelson talks about Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid, he speaks from the heart. He is a true fighter for Floridians and older Americans everywhere,” says National Committee president and CEO Max Richtman.

Senator Nelson has been a staunch advocate of Social Security, Medicare and Medicare since taking office in 2001.  His voting record on these issues has consistently earned him a 100% rating from the National Committee.   He fought President George W. Bush’s plan to privatize Social Security in 2005, pushed for the closure of the Medicare Part D prescription drug “doughnut hole,” and opposed converting Medicare into a voucher system and raising the program’s eligibility age.  In 2017, he introduced a bill to prevent the federal government from garnishing Social Security benefits to pay off student loans.

Governor Scott’s positions on these issues stand in stark contrast to Senator Nelson’s.  During his 2010 gubernatorial campaign, Scott advocated privatizing Medicare, Medicaid and veterans’ health services.  He appeared sympathetic to the idea of privatizing Social Security, as well. Last year, he endorsed the Republican plan to block-grant Medicaid, which could lead to huge funding cuts and reduced eligibility – or loss of coverage –  for 4.3 million low income Floridians.

“Governor Scott’s record makes it clear that he is the wrong choice for Florida seniors. He has taken policy positions that would undermine Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid, which are lifelines for older Americans” says Richtman.

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The National Committee, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization 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.

Media Inquiries to:

Pamela Causey 202-216-8378/202-236-2123

Walter Gottlieb 202-216-8414