Obama vs. Romney

Seniors & Social Security

Barack Obama vs. Mitt Romney

“Obama: "To put us on solid ground, we should also find a bipartisan solution to strengthen Social Security for future generations. We must do it without putting at risk current retirees, the most vulnerable, or people with disabilities; without slashing benefits for future generations; and without subjecting Americans’ guaranteed retirement income to the whims of the stock market.”

“Romney: “We are going to slowly and gradually raise the retirement age for Social Security from the current 66 for full benefits. And we'll slow the growth rate in benefits for higher-income retirees. Tomorrow's seniors should have the freedom to choose between Medicare and a range of private plans [think the Ryan Plan]. And if these future seniors want a more expensive plan, then they will have to pay the additional cost.”

The quotes above; one from President Obama and one from Governor Romeny. As you can see I crossed Governor Romeny's quote out because I do not agree with it. I feel like his plan is unfair. Governor Romeny wants seniors who have worked all there lives to keep working past the age of 66. He feels as though the current retirement age is low and it should be raised "slowly and gradually". My question is WHY ? 66 is not old enough to finally relax after working all them years? Governor Romeny believes that these TWO simple steps will strengthen the current social security system.

• First, for future generations of seniors, Mitt believes that the retirement age should be slowly increased to account for increases in longevity.
• Second, for future generations of seniors, Mitt believes that benefits should continue to grow but that the growth rate should be lower for those with higher incomes.

President Obama believes that all seniors should be able to retire with dignity, not just a privileged few. The President is committed to protecting and strengthening Social Security. In addition to protecting and strengthening Social Security, President Obama will make it easier for Americans to save on their own for retirement. This should dramatically increase savings participation rates. I feel as though Obama has a better path for our seniors, he is not trying to change the age or growth rates for retires.