Protect Social Security and Medicare for vulnerable populations

Social Security and Medicare are lifelines for millions of older adults and people with disabilities in this country. Cutting these vital programs would thrust countless individuals into poverty and jeopardize their access to essential healthcare. According to analysis by the Urban Institute, if Social Security's trust funds were depleted without any reforms, the poverty rate among Americans aged 65 and older would skyrocket from around 10% currently to over 20%. For those relying on Social Security Disability Insurance, the poverty rate would surge from 28% to a staggering 63%. These draconian cuts would be catastrophic, stripping away the basic financial security and medical coverage that allow our most vulnerable populations to live with dignity. We cannot let this happen. Responsible reforms must be pursued to strengthen the long-term solvency of Social Security and Medicare without compromising their core missions of supporting the elderly, disabled, and their families. The human costs of inaction are far too high.