Political Quotes

“I wish to spend a few minutes talking about an issue that I believe has not gotten the attention it deserves, especially in the midst of the contentious Presidential campaign we are witnessing, and that is the need to discuss a program which is probably the most successful social program in the modern history of the United States, a program that provides dignity and security to well over 50 million Americans, and that is Social Security. Just this afternoon, 29 Senators sent a letter to all of our colleagues that says: We will oppose including Social Security cuts for future or current beneficiaries in any deficit reduction package. Let's be very clear. Our country does have a serious deficit problem. Our deficit this year is about $1 trillion, and our national debt is $16 trillion. That is a serious problem. However, let's be equally clear in understanding that Social Security has not contributed one nickel to the Federal deficit. So despite what we are going to hear tonight on cable television or some of the speeches my colleagues will give, let me reiterate: Social Security has not contributed one nickel to our Federal deficit. In fact, the Social Security trust fund today, according to the Social Security Administration, has a $2.7 trillion surplus--let me repeat that: a $2.7 trillion surplus--and can pay out 100 percent of all benefits owed to every eligible American for the next 21 years.…”