William Roth (R)
First, let me assure all seniors that nothing will change for them or for those approaching retirement. I do not support raising the retirement age. Protecting Social Security for the long term is a sacred national commitment. First we must ensure that Social Security surpluses are used only for Social Security, and I will continue to fight to ensure that those funds are off limits for any other use.
Second, for our younger workers-our children and grandchildren-I believe that personal accounts should be given a fair hearing. I have proposed a demonstration project to test this idea outside of the Social Security system. As a supplement to traditional Social Security, personal accounts can help preserve and protect Social Security's benefit promises. With even conservative investment in stocks and bonds and the power of compound interest, personal accounts can provide a substantial increase in retirement income.
Women are especially affected by Social Security policy because they live longer than men. Benefits over time do not keep up with the needs of older women. As we move forward on the issue of Social Security, I will pay close attention to this issue.