Republicans claim, they want to maintain Social Security with measures that will protect and bring it back to its anti-poverty roots, along with helping to reduce federal expenditure, despite accusations; they are rubbing their hands together at the chance to put a stake through its center.
When the federal debt reaches $3.4 trillion in mid-2023, Republicans who are ready to regain control of the House of Representatives say they expect to use that as pressure to demand some reforms from Democrats. Democrats stated, they want to raise the limit before this Congress casts its final vote on 15 December, but they have not yet arranged a meeting to discuss the issue.
How bad is that?
Based on reports, Social Security funds will be distributed in 2035. The Old Age and Survivors Insurance (OASI) trust fund is expected to be exhausted by that time, however that only accounts for a portion of the payout. At that moment, payroll taxes would cover 76% of benefits, so retirees could still expect that sum. According to the current Social Security Administration annual report, the disability trust fund is healthier and should continue to exist and provide full benefits through the 75-year forecast window to 2096.
The recent annual report claims, because of a stronger-than-expected recovery from the 2020 recession, the pandemic benefited the programs. The report states, fewer people have applied for the disability program.
GOP- Fewer Tax, More Reform
In general, Republicans are opposed to the possibility of raising taxes to save Social Security. Republicans’ Jobs & The Economy Task Force has more information in a position document that focused on cutting the national debt.
Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., in his Commitment to America, a list of objectives that included a line to “maintain and strengthen Social Security and Medicare.” The report focuses on required spending, such as entitlements, which make up 76% of the federal budget and are a major contributor to the national debt.
