U.S. Representative Nick J. Rahall, II (D-WV) met with representatives from the West Virginia American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) Wednesday to sign the group's "Divided We Fail" pledge and reaffirm his commitment to strengthening Social Security and providing all Americans with access to quality, affordable health care.

"The solvency of the Social Security program and the availability of health care are concerns that touch the lives of all citizens, regardless of their age," said Rahall. "Social Security and health care accessibility are, and have always been, priorities to me, and I am proud to join AARP's bipartisan effort to ensure that hard-working West Virginians have access to the assistance and the services they deserve."

"Divided We Fail" is a national campaign sponsored by the AARP and designed to amplify the voices of Americans who believe that health care and long-term financial security are the most pressing issues confronting our nation. By signing the "Divided We Fail" pledge, Rahall signaled his continuing interest in developing bipartisan policies that protect Social Security, provide access to quality, affordable health care, and help to ensure a lifetime of financial security for Americans.

More information on the pledge can be found at www.dividedwefail.org.