Press Releases

Romney to Florida Seniors: More False Promises, More False Claims

David Blank — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 13:01:08 -0500

For Immediate Release

January 31, 2012

The following statement was issued today by Edward F. Coyle, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans.

“Last night at a Florida senior center, presidential candidate Mitt Romney once again couldn’t stop himself from telling an audience what they wanted to hear – even if it wasn’t true.

“Romney told retirees, ‘we will never go after Medicare or Social Security,’ even though he supports the Ryan budget to give seniors small vouchers to buy coverage from private insurance companies; wants to raise the Social Security retirement age; and wants to let Wall Street gamble away – and profit from – privatized Social Security accounts. For a notoriously inconsistent politician, Mitt Romney has a long, clear record of wanting to privatize Social Security and Medicare.

“Two sentences later, Romney doubled-down with, ‘there's only one president in history that's cut Medicare $500 billion and that's Barack Obama. And guess what he did it for? He did it to pay for Obamacare.’ Romney failed to mention that President Obama extended the life of the Medicare Trust Fund by seven years by courageously standing up to the big insurance companies who were being subsidized by the taxpayers – at a cost of $1000 per year for each senior – to provide the same services that Medicare could do for 14 percent less.

“To Mitt Romney, Social Security and Medicare are just two more ways to pander to the crowd. But for millions of seniors, Social Security and Medicare are the lifelines that allow them to pay their bills and stay healthy. Seniors cannot let Mitt Romney hide from the truth on these important issues.”

###

Contact: David Blank (202) 637-5275 or dblank@retiredamericans.org

Obama, Daniels Offer Stark Contrasts for Anxious Retirees

David Blank — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 11:00:58 -0500

For Immediate Release

January 25, 2012

The following statement was issued today by Edward F. Coyle, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans.

"President Barack Obama’s State of the Union Address and Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels’ Republican response provided sharp contrasts for retirees who worry about paying their bills and staying healthy.

"President Obama advanced a bold, broad agenda to strengthen our economy and rebuild our nation, a plan rooted in core American values of fairness, equal opportunity, and honoring our commitments. While retirees’ working days may be over, we worry about our children and grandchildren, as well as the future of the industries we helped build here at home. We strongly support the President’s goal of tax fairness; call us ‘old school,’ but we still believe that sacrifices should be made fairly.

"In contrast, the Republicans showed their true colors by choosing as their spokesperson a governor who believes he can revive his state’s economy by lowering wages and benefits for working families. Mitch Daniels’ vague rhetoric on Social Security and Medicare glossed over the cold reality that his party – from its presidential candidates to its House Speaker – wants seniors to be at the mercy of the big insurance companies; would let Wall Street profit from a privatized Social Security; and would allow states to slash Medicaid, even though it is the only way 70 percent of Americans can afford long-term and nursing home care.

"During the heat of the 2012 campaign, it will be more important than ever for retirees – a heavily-targeted voting bloc – to be able to separate fact from fiction. To this end, the Alliance for Retired Americans will launch its largest grassroots mobilization ever, educating seniors on both the issues and where the candidates stand."

###

Contact: David Blank (202) 637-5275 or dblank@retiredamericans.org

Retiree Leader: End of Super Committee Good News for Seniors

David Blank — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 16:14:31 -0500

“Unconscionable” to Cut Retiree Programs to Pay for Tax Cuts for Millionaires

For Immediate Release

November 21, 2011

The following statement was issued today by Edward F. Coyle, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans:

“The lack of recommendations today from the Super Committee is good news for current and future retirees.

“Over the past several months, activists with the Alliance for Retired Americans and other progressive groups helped send a clear message to Congress – Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid are critical lifelines for millions of Americans and cannot be sacrificed on the altar of even greater tax breaks for Wall Street and corporate CEOs.

“This was not the first threat that retirees have faced to their Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid – and it will not be the last. There may even be votes to cut these programs in December. At a time when so many retirees are struggling to get by, and when today’s workers wonder if they will ever be able to retire, it is unconscionable that Republicans continue to eye cuts to these programs as a way to fund an extension of tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans.

“As we head into the 2012 elections, the Alliance for Retired Americans will educate and mobilize seniors across the country on these important issues. Today, the power of grassroots activism helped spare seniors from terribly painful and unjust cuts. Next year, it will be more important than ever for both retirees and workers to know the truth about where the candidates stand on Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid.”

###

Contact: David Blank (202) 637-5275 or dblank@retiredamericans.org

Retiree Leader: Social Security COLA Announcement Clouded by Looming Threat on Capitol Hill

David Blank — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 16:08:13 -0400

“Super Committee” Considering Drastic Cut to Future Benefits

For Immediate Release

October 19, 2011

The following statement was issued today by Edward F. Coyle, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans:

“Seniors are pleased by today’s announcement of a 3.6 percent Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for Social Security beneficiaries. After two years of no increase, this will help retirees be better able to pay their bills and stay healthy.

“But today’s news is tempered by reports that the congressional “Super Committee” is considering changes to Social Security that will severely hinder retirees’ ability to keep pace with the rising cost of living. The panel may recommend a new statistical formula for future COLAs, one that would grossly understate the growing financial pressures on retirees.

“What the proponents of the change clinically call a ‘Chained-CPI,’ is what millions of seniors would call ‘food, shelter, clothing.’ A recent study showed that, if this change took effect, a worker retiring this year at age 65 would lose $6,000 in benefits by age 80.

“Social Security did not create our budget deficit – it is fully-funded by worker and employer payroll taxes. It is inexcusable for politicians who never met a tax break they didn’t like to try to balance the budget on the backs of current and future retirees.

“Today’s COLA is good news for retirees, but I worry that it could be the last one many seniors ever see. Workers and retirees must mobilize to protect the Social Security benefits millions of seniors count on to make ends meet.”

###

Contact: David Blank (202) 637-5275 or dblank@retiredamericans.org

Retiree Leader Praises Obama Economic Proposal

David Blank — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 13:48:12 -0400

Would Strengthen Nation, Honor Commitment to Social Security

For Immediate Release

September 19, 2011

The following statement was issued today by Edward F. Coyle, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans:

“Retirees laud President Obama for proposing bold ways to revitalize the American economy that are supported by sound fiscal choices and priorities. The President’s stand on increased revenues will address the nation’s debt in a fair and reasonable manner.

“We are particularly pleased that President Obama today reaffirmed his strong commitment to Social Security. Unlike congressional Republicans and presidential candidates, President Obama recognizes the importance of Social Security and will not try to lower federal spending on the backs of current and future retirees. Seniors applaud the President for maintaining the current eligibility age for Medicare and Social Security.

“It is particularly important that, as we make key investments in our future, we continue to honor our nation’s 76-year commitment to Social Security. Social Security is a truly great American success story, keeping generations out of poverty. We are no longer a nation where you work until you die.

“We will work closely with Administration and congressional officials to ensure that seniors do not face unfair cuts in Medicare and Medicaid, which help millions of elderly and low-income Americans stay healthy.

“President Obama wants to rebuild America the right way: making smart investments, asking more from those who have sacrificed far too little, and continuing the promise of Social Security for workers and retirees.”

###

Contact: David Blank (202) 637-5275 or dblank@retiredamericans.org

Retirees Tell Rick Perry: You Can Run, But You Can't Hide on Social Security

David Blank — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 14:16:28 -0400

For Immediate Release

August 19, 2011

The following statement was issued today by Edward F. Coyle, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans:

“Today’s retirees weren’t born yesterday. They know why Rick Perry is backpedaling on Social Security.

“After being confronted yesterday by members of the New Hampshire Alliance for Retired Americans, Gov. Perry and his campaign have been tripping over themselves to run from his previously stated views that Social Security is a ‘Ponzi Scheme,’ is unconstitutional, is a ‘bad disease,’ and is ‘a crumbling monument to the failure of the New Deal.’ These extreme views do not reflect the experiences of millions of Americans of all ages who have stayed out of poverty because of Social Security.

“Media reports in the past 24 hours show a variety of awkward attempts by Perry and his campaign to scale back his extreme views on Social Security that are clearly out of the mainstream of public opinion. It is particularly galling for Perry’s campaign to say that the Social Security positions Perry stated in his book are outdated, when the ink is barely dry on what was published last fall.

“In the 2012 elections, older voters – a swing voting bloc – will keep a close eye on all the candidates. Retirees know how important Social Security is to them and all Americans, and they want it to remain strong for generations to come.”

###

Contact: David Blank (202) 637-5275 or dblank@retiredamericans.org

Download a printable version

Retiree Leader Reacts to Possible Social Security Cuts

David Blank — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 14:57:43 -0400

For Immediate Release

July 7, 2011

Would be Devastating for Millions of Seniors, Coyle Says

The following statement was issued today by Edward F. Coyle, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans:

“Retirees are deeply concerned by media accounts that the White House is considering cuts in Social Security as part of the ongoing debt ceiling negotiations with Congress. The Alliance for Retired Americans would strongly oppose such a move.

“More specifically, we are troubled by an idea being floated in Washington to change a federal statistical formula to lower Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLAs) for Social Security. As the administration and Republican leaders have previously said, Social Security does not contribute to the budget deficit. It would be terribly hurtful – as well as contradictory to prior White House statements – to try to balance the budget on the backs of current and future retirees. Lowering the COLA would be devastating for millions of retirees. According to the program’s Chief Actuary, a 75-year-old retiree’s benefits would be cut by $560 per year, while an 85-year-old would have an annual cut of $984.

“Today’s seniors want to lower the budget deficit. They do not want a large debt to be the legacy they leave behind to their children and grandchildren. But the fact is that Social Security has not added one penny to our deficit and has no place in any debt ceiling negotiations.

“We are deeply grateful for the clear, unequivocal stances of Harry Reid and Nancy Pelosi. They recognize that Social Security is one of America’s greatest success stories and must remain strong for generations to come.”

###

Contact: David Blank (202) 637-5275 or dblank@retiredamericans.org

Download a printable version

Retiree Leader Reacts to AARP Position on Social Security Cuts

David Blank — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 15:45:32 -0400

Stresses Alliance Remains Opposed to Cuts, and Always Will Be

“My name is Ed Coyle, and I am the Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans, a 4 million-member advocacy organization for older Americans.

“The story in the Wall Street Journal today – which states that AARP supports cutting Social Security benefits - makes it apparent to me that AARP is not representing their members on this issue.

“I will leave it to AARP’s members to decide how they feel about this.

“AARP does not speak for all seniors. And on this topic probably not for many of their own members.

“There is no ambiguity on where the Alliance for Retired Americans stands on Social Security - never has been, never will be.

“We are against Social Security benefit cuts for seniors.

“The current economic recession is all the proof we need that Social Security frequently is the only safety net that keeps millions of seniors in their homes with food on their tables.

“We have heard the argument that when the Baby Boomers retire, they will break the bank. Of course their retirement will put a demand on the Trust Fund, but there are many alternatives to strengthen Social Security besides cutting benefits. Raising the payroll cap, for instance.

“The voices of doom are wrong. The Social Security Trust Fund has a $2.6 trillion surplus, and it is projected to grow to $4.3 trillion by 2023. We do not need to cut benefits.

“The Alliance for Retired Americans will always stand up for seniors and the middle class. We are for strengthening Social Security for today’s seniors and for generations to come.

“Our members hope that AARP will directly answer some basic questions.

-    Do you support any cuts in benefits?
-    Do you support raising the retirement age?
-    Do you support means testing?

“These are questions that any seniors organization ought to be prepared to answer directly.

“The Alliance for Retired Americans has fought side-by-side with AARP on many issues in the past.

“But if the story in today’s Wall Street Journal is accurate, we will be parting company on this issue because we just can’t let seniors down.”

Contact: David Blank (202) 637-5275 or dblank@retiredamericans.org

Download a printable version

New Report Shows Key Congressional Votes on Retiree Issues

Laura Markwardt — Tue, 31 May 2011 13:33:38 -0400

Tracks Roll Call Votes on Medicare, Social Security, Consumer Protection for Seniors

Washington DC – The Alliance for Retired Americans, a grassroots advocacy organization, today released its 2010 Congressional Voting Record, detailing the votes of every U.S. Senator and Representative on key issues affecting current and future retirees. Full record here

“At a time when Congress has been debating the future of Social Security and Medicare, it is more important than ever that people of all ages know the issues and how their elected officials voted,” said Alliance President Barbara J. Easterling, adding, “the 2010 Voting Record measures how committed our elected officials are to retirees and seniors.”

“The votes in this new report show how elected officials responded when presented with clear choices: stand up for seniors in their state who are struggling to get by, or further pad the profits of the drug and insurance companies and big Wall Street firms,” Easterling said.

The Alliance voting record examines ten key Senate votes and ten key House votes from 2010, giving the roll calls on issues such as strengthening Medicare, help for Social Security recipients, and protecting older Americans from consumer and lending fraud.

According the Alliance, 183 U.S. House Members achieved perfect scores of 100 percent in 2010, while 83 members of the House received scores of zero. Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI), the architect of the GOP’s plan to privatize Medicare and cut Social Security, was one of the House members receiving a grade of zero percent. Connecticut and Rhode Island were the only states to have all of their Representatives receive perfect scores.

22 members of the U.S. Senate received perfect scores of 100 percent, while 16 Senators received scores of zero. In six states, Hawaii, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Washington, and West Virginia, both Senators received perfect scores.

Contact: Laura Markwardt - 202-637-5178 / lmarkwar@retiredamericans.org

Release here

NY House Race Shows Fallout of House Medicare Vote

Laura Markwardt — Wed, 25 May 2011 10:16:46 -0400

For Immediate Release
May 25, 2011

Threats to Medicare Play Key Role in Tuesday’s Special Election

The following statement was issued today by Edward F. Coyle, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans.

“The outcome of the special election in New York’s 26th congressional district was greatly shaped by concern over a recent U.S. House vote to privatize Medicare and create an inadequate voucher program for retirees that would be run by health insurance companies.

"The April 15 Medicare vote troubled both seniors and workers. For retirees already struggling to get by, these proposed changes would be devastating. Many workers today are worrying that they will never be able to retire.

“Voters saw that Kathy Hochul will be a strong voice in Congress to protect the health care and retirement security of Americans of all ages. She made it crystal clear that she opposes turning Medicare over to private insurance companies, reducing Social Security benefits, and allowing state governors to cut Medicaid support for seniors who cannot afford nursing home care.

“These results show that health care and retirement security will be on the minds of many voters in the 2012 elections. The Alliance for Retired Americans will continue to educate voters on both the issues and where the candidates stand.”

Contact: Laura Markwardt (202) 637-5178, lmarkwar@retiredamericans.org

Download a printable version

Radio Ads in Colorado, Missouri, and West Virginia Protest Republican Cuts to Medicare, Social Security

David Blank — Mon, 25 Apr 2011 16:47:34 -0400

For Immediate Release

April 25, 2011

“It’s that Republican plan to end Medicare as we know it, putting us at the mercy of insurance companies”

The Alliance for Retired Americans begins airing radio ads today protesting Republican budget cuts to Medicare and Social Security. The ad will air in Colorado, Missouri, and West Virginia for 7 days. To hear it, go to http://bit.ly/h0ZHX1 (transcript below).

In addition to the radio ads, the Alliance is holding 27 public events in 14 states this week, featuring retirees in their old work uniforms, to protest budget cuts to Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid, all of which have been recently voted on in Congress. The public events are part of a national week of action called “Don’t Make Us Work ’Til We Die,” and are taking place in Arizona, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Vermont, and Wisconsin. Nationally, these events are sponsored by the Alliance for Retired Americans and the Strengthen Social Security Campaign, a coalition of more than 300 other national and state organizations.

The Alliance is also placing phone calls to its members in a dozen states protesting an April 15th vote in favor of the House Republican budget, which would turn Medicare over to insurance companies and slash Medicaid spending by $1.4 trillion. In a related message, Alliance members are telling their Representative that they oppose any cuts to Social Security benefits, including raising the retirement age.

For a detailed list of the events taking place in the coming week, as well as a video that demonstrates what’s at stake for retirees and workers who attend them, please go to http://www.retiredamericans.org/issues/Working_Til_We_Die.

The events are occurring as the budget debate is heating up in Washington, and as many in Congress propose big benefit cuts to Social Security, including increasing the retirement age to 69 or even 70.

“Social Security belongs to the people who have worked hard all their lives and contributed to the program. It does not belong to politicians in Washington who want to use it as a piggy bank to fund tax cuts for the rich or bailouts for Wall Street,” said Edward F. Coyle, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans. “Social Security is based on a promise.”

Transcription:

“I’m angry - it’s that Republican plan to end Medicare as we know it, putting us at the mercy of insurance companies.

“The Congressional Budget Office says our yearly costs will go up over $6,000 dollars.

“They’ll use our money to give more tax breaks to millionaires and corporations, and cut nursing home care and Social Security, too.

“With Republican priorities upside down, its time for us to speak up.

“Now more than ever we need (Senator Manchin; Senators Udall and Bennet; Sen. McCaskill) to stand for seniors and oppose these Medicare and Social Security cuts.

“This ad was sponsored by the Alliance for Retired Americans.”

Contact: David Blank (202) 637-5275 or dblank@retiredamericans.org

Download a printable version

Retirees and Workers Tell Congress: "Don't Make Us Work 'Til We Die!"

David Blank — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 16:23:51 -0400

For Immediate Release

April 21, 2011

Events Highlight Opposition to Republican Budget Cuts to Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid

Seniors, workers and residents from around the nation are holding events next week, many in their old work uniforms, to protest budget cuts to Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid, all of which have been recently voted on in Congress. The events are part of a national week of action called “Don’t Make Us Work ’Til We Die,” which are taking place in states including Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Ohio, Vermont, and Wisconsin during the week of April 25. Nationally, these events are sponsored by the Alliance for Retired Americans and the Strengthen Social Security Campaign, a coalition of more than 300 other national and state organizations.

Event participants are protesting an April 15th vote in favor of the House Republican budget, which would turn Medicare over to insurance companies and slash Medicaid spending by $1.4 trillion. Event participants are also telling their Representative that they oppose any cuts to Social Security benefits, including raising the retirement age.

For a detailed list of the events taking place in the coming week, as well as a video that demonstrates what’s at stake for retirees and workers who attend them, please go to http://www.retiredamericans.org/issues/Working_Til_We_Die.

The events are taking place as the budget debate is heating up in Washington, and as many in Congress propose big benefit cuts to Social Security, including increasing the retirement age to 69 or even 70.

“Social Security belongs to the people who have worked hard all their lives and contributed to the program. It does not belong to politicians in Washington who want to use it as a piggy bank to fund tax cuts for the rich or bailouts for Wall Street,” said Edward F. Coyle, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans. “Social Security is based on a promise.”

“Social Security did not cause the federal deficit. It has not contributed one penny to the deficit,” continued Mr. Coyle. “It has a $2.6 trillion surplus today that workers and employers paid for. Social Security benefits should not be cut to reduce the deficit.”

“These events send a clear message that if Congress raises the retirement age or cuts Social Security benefits seniors will be forced to work harder and longer,” added Coyle. “Politicians in Washington may be able to work until they are 70 or older because they don’t have physically demanding jobs that leave your body broken. But that’s not the case for many of us.”

“House Republicans have a plan that will decimate Medicare and Medicaid – two programs that are vital to the security of retirees,” concluded Coyle. They want to raise the Medicare eligibility age to 67. How do they expect people to get health care when they don’t have jobs to get insurance coverage and can’t afford coverage on their own?”

###

Contact: David Blank (202) 637-5275 or dblank@retiredamericans.org

Download a printable version

Retiree Leader Reacts to Obama Fiscal Speech

David Blank — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 16:24:07 -0400

Cut Tax Breaks for the Wealthy Instead of Balancing Budget on Backs on Seniors

For Immediate Release

April 13, 2011

The following statement was issued today by Edward F. Coyle, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans:

“Retirees support President Obama’s call to lower our federal budget deficit. Older Americans do not want a large debt to be the legacy we leave behind for our children and grandchildren.

“As this debate proceeds, grassroots activists with the Alliance for Retired Americans will be urging their elected officials to address the root causes of our deficit – the badly-unneeded tax breaks for wealthy individuals and corporations – and to protect and strengthen Social Security and Medicare, two great American success stories that have helped generations of seniors stay healthy and out of poverty.

“We are glad that President Obama separated his calls for Social Security reforms from the efforts to lower the deficit. We hope the President’s statement today will help dispel the lingering falsehood in the media and political circles that Social Security causes our deficit. The Social Security Trust Fund is fully-supported by worker and employer taxes, and currently has a $2.6 trillion surplus.

“There is a right way and a wrong way to lower federal spending. The wrong way is the plan that the U.S. House will vote on this week by Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI). For millions of Americans, it would effectively end their hopes of a safe and secure retirement by cutting Social Security, raising the retirement age, putting insurance companies in charge of privatized Medicare, and letting governors decide who gets nursing home care.

“Over the coming months and year, the Alliance for Retired Americans will be educating retirees across the country on these important issues and where their elected officials stand.”

###

Contact: David Blank (202) 637-5275 or dblank@retiredamericans.org

Download a printable version

Retiree Leader Condemns House GOP Budget Plan

David Blank — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 13:02:26 -0400

Medicare, Medicaid Cuts Would Hurt Low-Income Seniors

For Immediate Release

April 5, 2011

The following statement was issued today by Edward F. Coyle, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans:

"Paul Ryan's budget proposal takes better care of CEOs in corporate towers than it does seniors in nursing homes.

"His plan tries to hide its cold-hearted details behind seemingly innocuous buzzwords like ‘vouchers’ and ‘block grants.’ But the reality is that 'voucher' is Ryan-speak for turning Medicare over to the big insurance companies, and ‘block grant’ is Ryan-speak for saying that Medicaid should be run by Republican governors across the country.

"People of all ages have seen what happens when the insurance companies call the shots - they choose their profits over our health, the corporate interest over the public interest. Moreover, we have seen what has been happening in state capitals over the past few months. Why would anyone want to put affordable access to nursing homes and long-term care into the hands of Scott Walker, John Kasich, Mitch Daniels, or Chris Christie?

"In the name of deficit reduction, Paul Ryan goes way too far. What he wants is to fundamentally change our nation’s values – give tax cuts to the wealthy, but yet make it harder for seniors and low-income children to see a doctor.

"The Alliance for Retired Americans, with its 4 million members organized in 1400 local chapters, will spend the month of April organizing grassroots actions around the country to try to stop this cold-hearted plan. We have to tell Americans - particularly seniors - about just how dangerous Paul Ryan's budget proposal is.

"To keep America as a nation where we still lend a helping hand to the young and the old, and to the sick and the poor, we must stop these cuts to Medicare and Medicaid."

###

Contact: David Blank (202) 637-5275 or dblank@retiredamericans.org

Download a printable version

Retirees Celebrate Health Reform Anniversary

David Blank — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 13:12:40 -0400

New Law Good for Seniors, Retiree Leader Says

For Immediate Release

March 23, 2011

Washington – Marking the one-year anniversary of President Obama signing the Affordable Care Act, activists with the Alliance for Retired Americans are this week holding events around the country and writing their elected officials in support of new benefits that help retirees better afford to see a doctor and fill a prescription.

Alliance members have sent over 10,000 messages this week to Congress and governors, urging them to oppose any efforts to block or weaken key provisions of the law. The organization also ran a full-page ad in Roll Call [ http://bit.ly/eGHFEg ], praising the law for lowering the cost of prescription drugs; eliminating co-pays and deductibles for preventive tests and screenings; providing a free annual wellness visit with a doctor; and helping early retirees keep their health care coverage. The law extends the solvency of the Medicare Trust Fund for 12 years by eliminating wasteful subsidies to big insurance corporations.

“It is imperative that Congress help America’s seniors by preserving these benefits,” said Edward F. Coyle, Executive Director of the Alliance, adding, “After years of Medicare taking better care of insurance companies than retirees, we've finally begun to move in the right direction. Repealing these new benefits would hurt the health and well-being of America’s seniors.”

The Alliance is holding grassroots anniversary events this week in: Pittsburgh (with Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius); St. Louis (with HHS Assistant Secretary for Aging Kathy Greenlee); Toledo; Columbia, South Carolina; Chicago; Oakland; Albuquerque; Phoenix; Las Vegas; and Carson City, Nevada.

For more information on Alliance activities and fact sheets on health reform, visit http://bit.ly/cQTDL9.

Contact: David Blank (202) 637-5275 or dblank@retiredamericans.org

Download a printable version

GOP Leaders Threaten Social Security

David Blank — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 15:11:54 -0500

Retiree Leader Rejects “Cold-Hearted” Proposal

For Immediate Release

February 18, 2011

The following statement was issued today by Edward F. Coyle, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans:

“The Alliance for Retired Americans, a grassroots advocacy organization with over 4 million members, is outraged by the cold-hearted ways in which House Republicans are trying to lower the budget deficit on the backs of seniors, persons with disabilities, and young survivors.

“Their plan would create massive furloughs – shutting down the entire agency for 20 working days. This would be devastating for the people in our country who are most in need. For example:

•    Phones and offices would be shut down, leaving current recipients who have questions or concerns unable to get the help they need. 3.6 million people visit Social Security offices each month. Social Security receives 119,000 calls a day to its field offices and 280,000 calls a day to its 800 number. A twenty-day furlough would block 8 million callers who need immediate help;
•    Over a half a million people who are applying for benefits would be forced into a long backlog of delays that could extend well into next year; and
•    Those grieving from a recent death of a spouse would be unable to change their benefits status, banking information, and other details to help them through this difficult time.

“Millions of Americans would not get the help they need, all because of political gamesmanship and pettiness by the Republican Party.

“In my opinion, this is a back-door effort to cut Social Security. The Republicans have caught some much-deserved criticism when they have suggested cutting Social Security benefits, raising the retirement age, or turning privatized system over to Wall Street.

“But with this move today, they are hoping nobody notices.

“But we notice and we are here today to defend Social Security, one of America's greatest success stories.

“Social Security is a promise that our government makes to the American people.

“To keep that promise, the Social Security Administration must have the resources and staffing its needs to make sure that seniors, persons with disabilities, and survivors are able to receive the benefits they have earned and need each month to make ends meet.

“The Alliance for Retired Americans strongly opposes this bill and urges the Senate to reject these cold-hearted cuts.”

###

Contact: Contact: David Blank (202) 637-5275 or dblank@retiredamericans.org

Download a printable version

GOP Leaders Threaten Social Security, Medicare

David Blank — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 15:32:45 -0500

Responses to State of Union Address Show Party’s True Colors

For Immediate Release

January 25, 2011

The following statement was issued today by Edward F. Coyle, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans:

"Retirees who count on Social Security and Medicare to make ends meet should be concerned by the House Republicans who will respond to President Obama’s State of the Union Address, Reps. Paul Ryan, chair of the House Budget Committee, and Michele Bachman, founder of the House Tea Party Caucus.

“Ryan’s self-touted ‘Roadmap’ would be a dead end for retirees. It would turn a privatized Social Security over to Wall Street, cut benefits, and raise the retirement age. It would end Medicare as we know it, turning it into a voucher program that would have many seniors paying more money for less medical coverage.

“Bachmann has termed Social Security a ‘tremendous fraud’ and spoke of the need to ‘wean’ away current workers from Social Security. Even though the self-funded Social Security program has not added one dime to the deficit, too many people in Washington want to balance the budget on the backs of seniors.

“Last week, Reps. Ryan and Bachmann were leaders in voting to repeal the 2010 health reform law, changes in Medicare that help over 46 million seniors better afford to see a doctor and fill a prescription. Ryan and Bachmann led the effort to raise prescription drug costs, take away free preventive screenings for life-threatening diseases, and stop a long-overdue plan to help middle class families with the costs of long-term care.

“Social Security and Medicare are two great American success stories. It is revealing that tonight the Republican Party will be led by two individuals who want to turn back the clock on all we have done to help retirees enjoy dignity and good health in their later years.”

###

Contact: David Blank (202) 637-5275 or dblank@retiredamericans.org

Download a printable version

Retiree Leaders to Obama: State of Union a Chance to Strengthen Social Security

David Blank — Thu, 20 Jan 2011 15:38:53 -0500

Joint Letter Critical of False Budget Claims

For Immediate Release
January 20, 2011

Washington DC – Thirty state retiree leaders today told President Obama that he has “the opportunity to renew the nation’s commitment to the Social Security program during the State of the Union Address” and urged him to reject false claims that Social Security increases the federal budget deficit.

In a joint letter signed by 30 presidents of state chapters of the Alliance for Retired Americans, the retiree leaders said they are concerned that “many in Washington will try to take advantage of the nation’s current debt situation and cause permanent damage to the Social Security program.” The co-signers wrote that the program is fully-financed by worker and employer contributions and that the “current debt situation should not be a political cover for attacking Social Security.”

Noting recent moves to cut benefits and raise the retirement age, the state retiree leaders wrote to the President, “we strongly urge you to resist such efforts... the debate over the current debt situation is not the forum for debating the future of Social Security.”

For a copy of the letter, go to http://bit.ly/dK1pBa.

“Retirees will be watching the State of the Union address on Tuesday, and they will support President Obama’s call to lower federal spending. But they know that Social Security did not create these deficits and that we cannot balance the budget on the backs of current and future retirees,” said Edward F. Coyle, Executive Director of the 4 million member Alliance for Retired Americans.

Contact: David Blank (202) 637-5275 or dblank@retiredamericans.org

Download a printable version

Vote To Repeal Health Reform is a Vote Against America's Seniors

David Blank — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 15:48:31 -0500

Senior Group Outraged at Proposal to Repeal New Medicare Benefits

For Immediate Release
January 18, 2011

The following statement was issued today by Edward F. Coyle, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans.

“The proposal to be voted on in the U.S. House this week to repeal the 2010 health reform law is unconscionable. Seniors are clear on this: DO NOT raise our prescription drug costs; DO NOT re-open the Medicare Part D prescription drug doughnut hole; and DO NOT take away our free preventive screenings by repealing this law.

“Over 46.5 million Medicare beneficiaries in this country would be harmed by the repeal of the health care reform law. Members of the House must vote against repeal and protect these important new benefits (http://bit.ly/gesRSR) for seniors.

“The new law extends the solvency of Medicare by 12 years and we must not reverse course. Last year, over 2.7 million Medicare beneficiaries who fell into the doughnut hole received rebate checks, and this year victims of the Medicare Part D doughnut hole will receive 50% off brand name drugs and 7% off generics. The doughnut hole is set to close entirely by 2020.

“After years of Medicare taking better care of insurance companies than seniors, we've finally begun to move in the right direction. Repealing these new benefits repeals our promise to America’s seniors and Medicare beneficiaries.”

###

Contact: David Blank (202) 637-5275 or dblank@retiredamericans.org

Download a printable version

Retirees Angered by Congressional Defeat of Help for Social Security Recipients

David Blank — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 17:41:40 -0500

Amidst Talk of Tax Cuts for the Rich, Republicans Block Help for Struggling Seniors

For Immediate Release
December 8, 2010

The following statement was issued today by Edward F. Coyle, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans, in response to the defeat of bills in both the U.S House and Senate to provide a one-time $250 payment to seniors.

“In a week defined by tax cuts for millionaires, retirees are stunned and outraged that Congress would reject a one-time $250 payment to seniors who, for the second year in a row, have been denied a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) by an arcane and outdated federal statistical formula.

“This legislation is critical to retirees, but unfortunately, congressional Republicans overwhelmingly chose to oppose it. While Democrats continue to protect Social Security, Republicans continue to advocate risky schemes to privatize it and cut benefits. America’s seniors deserve better.

“It is the height of callous hypocrisy that many on Capitol Hill can simultaneously lead the fight for tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans while at the same time deem it excessive to give $250 to retirees struggling to heat their homes and put food on the table in this cold winter.

“The average senior receives $1172 per month from Social Security, an amount on which it is very difficult to make ends meet. A one-time $250 payment may be just dinner and drinks for those on Wall Street, but it would make a real difference for seniors on Main Street.

“Retirees are terribly disappointed by these votes on Capitol Hill.”

# # #

Contact:
David Blank (202) 637-5275
dblank@retiredamericans.org

Download a printable version

Press Releases

Romney to Florida Seniors: More False Promises, More False Claims

Obama, Daniels Offer Stark Contrasts for Anxious Retirees

Retiree Leader: End of Super Committee Good News for Seniors

Retiree Leader: Social Security COLA Announcement Clouded by Looming Threat on Capitol Hill

Retiree Leader Praises Obama Economic Proposal

Retirees Tell Rick Perry: You Can Run, But You Can't Hide on Social Security

Retiree Leader Reacts to Possible Social Security Cuts

Retiree Leader Reacts to AARP Position on Social Security Cuts

New Report Shows Key Congressional Votes on Retiree Issues

NY House Race Shows Fallout of House Medicare Vote

Radio Ads in Colorado, Missouri, and West Virginia Protest Republican Cuts to Medicare, Social Security

Retirees and Workers Tell Congress: "Don't Make Us Work 'Til We Die!"

Retiree Leader Reacts to Obama Fiscal Speech

Retiree Leader Condemns House GOP Budget Plan

Retirees Celebrate Health Reform Anniversary

GOP Leaders Threaten Social Security

GOP Leaders Threaten Social Security, Medicare

Responses to State of Union Address Show Party’s True Colors

Contact: David Blank (202) 637-5275 or dblank@retiredamericans.orgDownload a printable version

Retiree Leaders to Obama: State of Union a Chance to Strengthen Social Security

Vote To Repeal Health Reform is a Vote Against America's Seniors

Retirees Angered by Congressional Defeat of Help for Social Security Recipients

Contact: David Blank (202) 637-5275 or dblank@retiredamericans.org

Download a printable version