Senator Reid: "Social Security has contributed not a single penny to the deficit."

[ProSense]

Reid wants no cuts to Social Security

By DAVID ESPO

WASHINGTON – Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid said Wednesday that cost-cutting in large government benefit programs is possible "as long as you eliminate Social Security" from the discussion, registering opposition to prominent proposals to hold down spending.

"Social Security has contributed not a single penny to the deficit. So we can talk about entitlements as long as you eliminate Social Security," said Reid, D-Nev. "Because Social Security is not part of the problem we have in America with the deficit."

Reid's spokesman, Jon Summers, said the Nevada Democrat opposes any cuts for Social Security recipients, as well as any reduction in benefits promised to future retirees. He also rejects an increase in the age at which workers can begin to draw full Social Security retirement, Summers said, because "he sees that as a benefit cut."

Senior lawmakers in both parties have talked in general terms of seeking a broad deficit-reduction agreement later this year. Reining in the growing costs of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid is widely cited as essential to any such compromise.

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[global1]

1. There Is A Way To Secure Social Security And That Is.....

to raise the ceiling and let everyone pay on their their total earnings.

[Lugnut]

6. The ceiling should be lifted entirely.

Every penny of earned income should be subject to FICA. PERIOD!

[gateley]

2. Give 'em hell, Harry! And why aren't the REST of the Dems singing this loud, clear, and repeatedly?

[lumberjack_jeff]

3. I wish I could stockpile recommends.

Go Harry!

[Historic NY]

4. See and all you folks didn't have faith in Harry....

imagine Mitch, social security is causing trillion dollar deficits and should be discontinued.

[PoliticAverse]

5. Will Reid oppose any change in the COLA methodology? n/t