1. United States
2. Mo.
3. Letter

I am writing as a concerned constituent to express my deep opposition to comments and proposals coming from Speaker Mike Johnson regarding Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. Millions of Americans have paid into these programs throughout their working lives with the expectation that the benefits they earned would be there when needed. These are not handouts. They are promises made to workers, retirees, people with disabilities, and families who depend upon them for economic security and healthcare. Recent statements suggesting that Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid must be adjusted or fixed have created understandable concern among Americans who fear that these words are simply a precursor to benefit reductions, eligibility changes, privatization efforts, or increases to the retirement age. At a time when many seniors are already struggling with rising costs for housing, food, and medical care, Congress should be strengthening these programs rather than looking for ways to weaken them. I believe it is irresponsible to discuss cuts to earned benefit programs while simultaneously advancing policies that increase the national debt through large tax reductions. Working Americans should not be asked to sacrifice their retirement security or healthcare to offset fiscal decisions that primarily benefit the wealthiest individuals and corporations. I urge you to publicly oppose any proposal that would reduce Social Security benefits, raise the retirement age, weaken Medicare coverage, or cut Medicaid services. Please stand with retirees, workers, people with disabilities, and families who rely on these vital programs. The American people deserve transparency. If congressional leaders have plans to alter these programs, those plans should be released and debated openly rather than discussed in vague terms that leave citizens uncertain about their future. I respectfully ask that you defend and protect Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid and reject any effort to diminish the benefits Americans have earned. Speaker Mike Johnson’s approach threatens public confidence in programs that millions of Americans depend upon, and Congress must make clear that these commitments will be honored.