Ted Deutch: “I rise with deep concerns over the temporary payroll tax cut included in the package before us tonight, not because we…”

“I rise with deep concerns over the temporary payroll tax cut included in the package before us tonight, not because we shouldn't provide relief to the middle class. We must, tonight. Cutting Social Security contributions could have lasting consequences, however, for our Nation's most successful domestic program. In a year, in this very Chamber, many of our colleagues across the aisle will likely work to make this tax holiday permanent, just as they are tonight for the Bush tax cuts. Jeopardizing Social Security's independent revenue stream will open retirement benefits to budgetary attacks for the first time and pave the way for attempts to privatize Social Security. We could give middle class Americans tax relief without threatening Social Security in this way. The unfortunate truth is we will not accomplish that here tonight, even as we do provide struggling working families and jobless Americans with a lifeline that they desperately need. But we must commit ourselves tonight to the fight that lies ahead. We must be ready to protect Social Security and defend our seniors and working Americans from the attacks that are sure to come.”