Rep Bob Etheridge (Dem- NC) replies to my letter about SS

Thank you for writing me to express your opposition to
privatizing Social Security. It was good to hear from you, and I
appreciate your taking the time to get in touch with me about this
important issue.

I am pleased to know of your interest in this issue, and I
share your opposition to privatizing Social Security. For almost
seventy years, Social Security has lifted millions of American
workers and their families out of poverty. It guarantees seniors
that they will not have to live out their golden years without hope.
I strongly oppose privatizing Social Security.

Privatization is not the answer to fixing Social Security's
long-term financial problems. In fact, it will make matters worse.
A system based on private accounts would destroy the Social
Security Trust Fund, jeopardizing the retirement security of
millions of hard working Americans. We have recently witnessed
first-hand greedy corporate crooks robbing thousands of people of
their retirement nest eggs, leaving families with no way to plan for
their future. At the same time, the fluctuating stock market has
damaged the value of too many 401(k) plans. Social Security is a
guarantee that applies to every American; it should not be
subjected to the whim of corrupt CEOs or the ups and downs of the
market.

Experts and economists tell us that Social Security is
solvent for at least another 50 years. I am willing to work in good
faith with the President and Republicans and Democrats in
Congress to correct Social Security's problem. As a member of
the Democratic Working Group on Social Security, you can be
sure that I will continue to work to protect Social Security and the
working families and seniors who depend on it.

I fully support our armed forces in the fight to defeat our
enemies and eliminate the threat of terrorist attacks on the
American people. I am working with our national leaders to
support policies that will defend our values, protect our children
and our families, put our people back to work and get our economy
back on track. I look forward to your continued input on these and
other issues as I do so.


Sincerely,

Bob Etheridge
Member of Congress


Note: Looks like the GOP has a fight on their hands regarding Social Security. I also heard a report on the radio this morning that older voters are much more likely to vote in mid-term elections and they are the voters that are opposed to the GOP's attempts to dismantle Social Security. A recent poll found that voters favored the Dems over the GOP concerning Social Security at almost 2 to 1. It gives me hope.