Social Security

Since its creation in 1935, Social Security has provided millions of seniors with a foundation of economic security and lifted millions

Honoring the Founder of Social Security

more out of poverty. Prior to Social Security’s establishment, nearly 50 percent of all seniors in America lived in poverty. During President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s crusade to create the social insurance and retirement program, he said, “There is no tragedy in growing old, but there is tragedy in growing old without means of support.” Thanks in large part to the program’s success, the number of seniors living in poverty has been reduced to approximately ten percent.

Social Security is a basic American value. It is a promise that if you work hard, you will have some security when you retire or if you become disabled. It is a safety net to keep seniors out of financial poverty. And it is a pledge that if your spouse or parent passes on, you will continue to have the support and security you need.

Priorities

Guaranteeing Social Security benefits for all
Ensuring Social Security's protections for the disabled
Protecting benefits for women and minorities
Securing the Social Security fund
Ensuring quick responses from the Social Security Administration for disability claims
Protecting the federal budget from ever growing deficits

Accomplishments

Fought President Bush’s misguided Social Security plan that would have cut benefits to middle class seniors, widows, and survivors.
Supported legislation that would eliminate the Government Pension Offset and the Windfall Elimination Provisions to ensure all federal employees and retirees receive their full pay and benefits.
Supported legislation to protect Social Security cost-of-living adjustments.
Supported efforts to cut down on backlogs at the Social Security Administration to ensure quick responses.

.........................................

Recent News Releases

11/16/2005
Murray Statement on Senate Pension Bill

9/12/2005
Murray, Democratic Leaders Call for a Renewed Emphasis on Emergency Preparedness

5/12/2005
Democratic Women Senators Express Deep Concern Over Bush Plan to Cut Social Security Survivor Benefits

4/28/2005
Murray Statement on President’s Social Security Ideas

4/26/2005
Senator Murray Questions Treasury Secretary on Social Security, Washington Wine & Taxpayer Services