On Social Security’s 85th birthday, many older Alaskans find themselves deferring retirement or coming to grips with unexpected unemployment. As we grapple with the abrupt changes brought on by coronavirus, it is clear we must maintain Social Security’s hard-earned benefit for millions of older Americans and their families.
According to a new AARP survey, a significant majority of Americans, Republicans (93%), Democrats (99%), and independents (92%) alike, see Social Security as an important government program, and more than half (56%) say it is even more important in light of the pandemic. With so many Americans struggling to afford health care and other basic needs, it is clear that the earned benefits Social Security provides is more important than ever.
AARP is fighting to protect Alaska voters age 50 and older in this election and make voters’ voices heard on the issues that matter most to them. To win in 2020, candidates need to tell voters how they will protect the future of Social Security and must have a solution to keep Social Security strong. We will never stop fighting to strengthen Social Security, and make sure hard-working Americans get the benefits they have earned.
Teresa Holt
AARP Alaska State Director
Anchorage
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