Saving Social Security in the 21st Century

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National Review:

his week, America marked two significant milestones in its history. Friday was the 80th anniversary of Social Security, a program that has helped millions of seniors, including my parents, retire with dignity. Saturday is the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II, when the most violent conflict in human history ended as an American victory.

 

We refer to the Americans responsible for these accomplishments as the “Greatest Generation.” In less than two decades, they survived economic catastrophe, triumphed in a global conflict, and laid the foundation for unparalleled prosperity for their children in what would become an American century. When faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges, they took our nation to new heights. Because of their sacrifices, we have been able to enjoy what we call the American dream, promising that our children’s future will always be brighter than our own.

 

But while our nation stands on the shoulders of those before us, each generation must seize new opportunities and confront new challenges. Social Security and our other safety-net programs have helped many generations of American seniors, but neglect by Washington politicians in both parties has left them in peril, and reform is direly needed to prevent their collapse.