Washington, D.C. - This afternoon U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) will join more than 100 Congressional Democrats and thousands of people from around the country to oppose President Bush’s proposal to privatize Social Security at a large rally in Washington, D.C.  A rally in opposition to Social Security privatization is also planned for Bellingham today.

“Today’s rally gives me the opportunity to stand united with my colleagues in D.C. and my constituents in Washington state who are also rallying today to say ‘No’ to President Bush’s plan to privatize Social Security,” Larsen said.

Today marks the first step in legislative action on the proposal to privatize Social Security, with Congressional hearings to begin in the Senate Finance Committee.  This is also the end of the administration’s 60 days of travel around the country on Social Security. 

“I will continue to do my part in Congress and at home to protect and strengthen Social Security for the future,” Larsen committed.

The D.C. rally takes place in Upper Senate Park on the Capitol Grounds at 2:00 p.m. EST. Participants include House and Senate Members opposed to privatization; more than 1,000 Americans from around the country united against privatization; and, James Roosevelt, grandson of FDR.

Before the rally, Larsen will sign a “Declaration of Unity” with other Democrats that reads: “Social Security guarantees Americans that if they work hard, contribute, and play by the rules, they have earned the right to retire in dignity, and their families will be protected in the event of disability or death.  We are united in our commitment to strengthen Social Security, not privatize it.  We will work to improve the retirement security of all Americans and will oppose any scheme for deep benefit cuts or massive debt to fund risky private accounts.”

Larsen has heard from more than 1,000 constituents in his district who oppose privatizing Social Security. In February, Larsen held Social Security Town Hall meetings in the 2nd Congressional District where he heard from constituents on the issue. An overwhelming majority opposed Bush’s plan to privatize portions of Social Security.