Seniors

Every day, 10,000 Americans turn 65 years old. As the Co-Chair of the House Democrats Task Force on Aging and Families in the House of Representatives, I believe it is essential that we nurture a culture that respects older Americans and that protects the financial and health security that Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid provide.

Older Americans have spent many years working to raise families, pay their taxes, protect our country and build our communities. They have the right to the benefits that they have earned and to know that they will have the resources they need in retirement. That is why I so strongly oppose efforts to privatize Social Security or reduce benefits, to turn Medicare over to private insurance companies and turn it into "vouchercare", or jeopardize access to long-term care services by cutting Medicaid and turning it into a block grant. We can ensure the longevity of these programs by making them more efficient. We do not need to cut benefits.

I am also committed to expanding access to the full range of long-term care services and supports, and helping seniors age in place within their own communities. We must build upon the Older Americans Act to meet those needs.