Political Quotes

“yesterday the President said, ``Those who obstruct reform, no matter what party they are, will pay a political price.'' Ironically, it is the President's insistence on privatization of Social Security that is slowing retirement reform. Privatization of Social Security has become the poison pill of progress. We need to broaden the debate on privatizing Social Security into a discussion of retirement security. Democrats have ideas and proposals; our Republican friends have ideas and their proposals. We are not all that far apart. But before we can move forward, the privatization of Social Security has brought progress to a standstill. Here are four ideas I have proposed: automatic enrollment in 401(k)s for all Americans; direct deposits of tax refunds into savings accounts; a government match of the first $2,000 you save, matching it for 50 percent; and the universal 401(k) to simplify and consolidate the 16 different savings vehicles that exist. Madam Speaker, make no mistake, this is the domestic issue of our time. We can choose to lead, or we can continue to debate the privatization plan the public has already rejected. Let us not allow the President to stand in the way of progress. The American people deserve a secure retirement. ____________________”