Congressman Cliff Stearns
Florida's Sixth District
First elected 1988

Social Security

Social Security is our government's most popular domestic program. Over some seven decades, Social Security has provided retirement security for tens of millions of Americans. Four generations of Americans have relied on the Government to keep the promises it made to them during their working years. As demographics change and costs increase, the challenge we face is ensuring that the Social Security system is strengthened for tomorrow's retirees. Like many, I am concerned with meeting the challenge of longevity and solvency of this important government program.

Why is Social Security Important?

Without Social Security, almost half of seniors would live in poverty.
About two out of three seniors rely on Social Security for at least half of their income, and about one in five rely on social Security for all of their income.

My Goals on Social Security

No changes in Social Security benefits for current beneficiaries or near retirees.
No payroll tax increases.
Return to budget surpluses to extend the long-term solvency of Social Security.

The bottom line - Seniors and near-retirees will receive every penny in Social Security benefits they have earned over a lifetime of hard work.