Idaho Democrats Celebrate 75th Anniversary of Social Security: Call on Republicans to reject privatization

Posted on Aug 13, 2010 in Uncategorized

August 14, 2010 is the 75th anniversary of the creation of Social Security on August 14, 1935. In recognition of that occasion, Idaho Democratic Party Vice Chair Jeanne Buell issued the following statement on behalf of the Idaho Democratic Party:

“I would like to join with Americans around the country in celebrating the 75th anniversary of Social Security.  For three quarters of a century, hard-working families in Idaho and all across America have paid into this critical system throughout their careers so that they will later be guaranteed a source of income independent of the influence of Wall Street.

“This has enabled older Americans to live out their golden years with peace of mind and resulted in the growth of the middle class throughout Idaho and all America. Social Security is the cornerstone of America’s commitment to our seniors and the foundation of a dignified retirement for millions of Americans, without which half our nation’s workforce would lack access to a stable source of retirement income.

“Not only does Social Security protect seniors, but it also provides support for Americans with disabilities who are prevented from working by those disabilities, and serves as a lifeline for widows, widowers, and their children. Social Security is an expression of our national commitment to those individuals, and that commitment is a core Democratic principle.

“Our celebration is tempered by a growing number of Republicans who want to strip this security from hard-working families. Just five years ago, President Bush and all of Idaho’s Republican delegation in Congress supported privatization of Social Security. And now Republican candidates around the country are planning to do just that—to privatize or dismantle Social Security and take this important program away from Americans who need it.

“In Idaho, where incomes are below the national average – and falling – seniors are particularly vulnerable. This is something we just can’t allow.

“As we acknowledge this important day in history, let us also remember the work it took to achieve and protect Social Security for America’s senior citizens. I applaud Democratic leaders for their stalwart work to create Social Security and to protect it. And, I look forward to another 75 years of ensuring that all Americans, not just the privileged few, are able to live and retire with dignity.”