April 28,2005

Grassley on Advancing Work to Save Social Security

EMBARGOED UNTIL THE CONCLUSION
OF THE PRESIDENT’S APRIL 28TH NEWS CONFERENCE

M E M O R A N D U M

TO: Reporters and Editors
RE: Bush Comments on Social Security
DA: Thursday, April 28, 2005

Sen. Chuck Grassley, chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, issued the following comment about the President’s remarks tonight on Social Security.

“Just like President Clinton started out to do, President Bush has given Congress an opportunity to fix Social Security’s problems. President Bush’s steadfast leadership on this issue is important because we want every American to have a safe and secure retirement. Social Security ispart of the social fabric of America. It’s a good deal for my generation, but Social Security will bea raw deal for my grandkids’ generation if Congress doesn’t act to secure the program’s future.

“As chairman of the Senate committee responsible for Social Security legislation, I’ve heldtwo hearings this year to talk about the program’s solvency and options that could strengthen SocialSecurity for younger workers. I’m planning another hearing next month and intend to presentlegislation for committee action this summer. I’ve invited every member of the committee,Republicans and Democrats, to come to the table and work on a solution.

“The annual Trustees report says the Social Security program is unsustainable in its currentform. Those who are spending their time attacking and trying to frame this debate in partisan termswould do a lot more good for future retirees by working to find solutions to put this vital programon sustainable footing. It’s irresponsible to badmouth ideas that could help do that without offeringany of your own.

“I want to take advantage of the environment created by the President’s leadership tostrengthen Social Security. Members of Congress are elected to solve problems, not kick them downthe road for someone else to deal with. The question this year is, do lawmakers care more about thenext election or the next generation?”