SocraticGadfly: BushCo myths about Social Security shot down from inside

July 13, 2008

BushCo myths about Social Security shot down from inside

Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy Russell Beland tells us the truth about those beloved GOP myths about “Social Security is going broke.”

Shorter version of Beland:
1. The actuarial assumptions are so fine-tuned that making any long-term prediction is dicey at best;
2. The surge in retirees will NOT overburden Social Security;
3.Boomer retirement will actually be GOOD for the economy, including providinga scarce labor market that could drive up wages. (Editor note — That said,look for the drumbeat in favor of immigration to surge amongst the big businesswing of the GOP in coming years.);
4. This surge in wages will increase payroll taxes, thereby directly benefiting Social Security.

So, there you go. Read the whole thing for a handy list of talking points to refute GOP friends, bloggers or whomever.

No comments: