Congress needs to act, and the sooner we do so, the sooner we can protect those who are most vulnerable.

Social Security will be unable to pay benefits promised in the future, and how the program needs to be strengthened for generations to come.

It does disturb me that some of the proposals we see from my Republican colleagues call for nothing but cuts to the benefits in Social Security.

Social Security is not overly generous. Social Security hasn't gotten too big when it comes to what it provides to Americans.

Yes, and small businesses--our studies indicate that is where most of the jobs are created.

Yes, it is negative overall, in my view, too.

And the reality is that today we have a system that has never failed the American public.

I do believe, Mr. Chairman, like you, that there is a chance for some bipartisan cooperation in dealing with the future challenges that Social Security will face.

Thank you. You know, you guys didn't talk about raising the age limit at all. I am surprised.

So you are not consulting the medical community at all.

Last Congress, the Democratically controlled Congress, passed a health care overhaul and a stimulus bill that were supposed to control health care costs and extend the life of the trust fund.