Social Security is a promise that work over a lifetime will be met with dignity in retirement. For millions of seniors, people with disabilities, and surviving spouses, it is not a supplement but a lifeline. Any attempt to cut benefits or raise the retirement age breaks that promise and shifts the burden onto those who can least afford it.

We oppose efforts to reduce earned benefits under the guise of fiscal responsibility. Raising the retirement age is simply a benefit cut, especially for workers in physically demanding jobs who cannot continue working into their late sixties or seventies. Social Security is insurance that workers pay into every paycheck, and it must remain strong and reliable for current and future generations.

To strengthen the program, we support lifting the cap on taxable income subject to Social Security contributions. Today, income above a certain threshold is not taxed for Social Security, allowing the wealthiest earners to pay a smaller share of their income than middle class workers. Requiring high earners to contribute on more of their income would extend the life of the program without cutting benefits.

We also support full Social Security spousal benefits for all lawfully married same sex couples, no matter where they live. Marriage equality must include equal access to the benefits that families depend on in retirement. Protecting Social Security means honoring fairness, strengthening solvency, and ensuring that every worker can retire with security and respect.