U.S. Senator Pat Roberts

Social Security is an important component of American workers' retirement planning and also serves as a vital safety net for individuals with disabilities and those surviving families of workers who have passed away. During my service in Congress, I have fought hard to protect and strengthen both Social Security and Medicare for generations to come. My record shows that I have voted to decrease wasteful government spending and ensure that Social Security funds will not be used to offset the costs of other programs. I have opposed the taxation of Social Security benefits and worked to repeal the offset for those over 65 years of age who wanted to work.
 
The problem that our country will soon face is the inability to pay promised benefits to future workers because more is being paid out than earned in revenue. The demographic reality that the baby boomers will soon retire, causing significant financial strain on the program, looms over policymakers. At this point in time, all options must be put on the table for debate. Congress must act thoughtfully and responsibly as we weigh the benefits and the risks of each proposal.
 
Let me be clear that any Social Security reform proposal considered by Congress must not impact current or near term retirees. I do not believe any member of Congress would support such a change. That said, we must work to ensure the long term solvency of this important program. Ensuring Social Security's long term viability -- for our children and their children -- will not come without difficult choices.