RE: Avoiding Distortion of the Facts in 2000

[National Dialogue Moderator <moderator>]

Carolyn's question refers to a public opinion poll indicating that 74% of
the American public believe that a solution to Social Security's solvency
problems must go beyond using budget surpluses.  Similar public opinion
polls also indicate overwhelming opposition to increasing the retirement
age, reducing Cost of Living Adjustments (COLAs) or increasing payroll taxes
on current workers.

Americans should be very concerned that the discussion on how to save Social
Security will turn into a partisan election issue.  Look at the past.
Programs that are of importance to our nation's seniors, such as Medicare
and Social Security, have been exploited for political gain.  Hopefully,
history will not repeat itself in the 2000 election cycle.  The public can
help foster a meaningful debate and discussion of Social Security by
rewarding elected officials who do the right thing and work to find
solutions to Social Security's long-term financing problems.

Rep. Kenny Hulshof