Yes, he is a Republican, but he hasn't voted for a Republican in 20 plus years.
We talk all the time and he is always telling me the Democrats have to get their act together.
Here is the letter he sent me today (he types them out and mails them) :
Dear Daughter;
We were discussing Social Security and how it could be helped. We agree that Bush's plan stinks, and is only intended to make money for stockbrokers, and, in turn, for the Republican Party. It actually will break the system much quicker.
However, it appears that, in the long run, some repairs will have to be made. Since the conservatives have raised it now, the progressives must present a reasonable plan to correct any problems that may arise in the futre. I do not know exactly how the system works, but I believe that the Democrats should propose the following:
All earnings are subject to Social Secruity tax. I believe the cut-off is now $90,000. As with most programs, including taxes, those who earn the least money pay the bigger share, and have less money to spend. This is basically unfair, but the conservatives like it this way. There is no valide reason for earnings over $90,000 not to contribute. The rate can be reduced so that those who earn less money will have more money to spend. The additional payments from the higher earnings will more than make up for any decrease in the rate and any shortfall in the foreseeable future. Employers also contribute and their share should stay where it is. It makes no sense to raise the earnings limit to say, $120,000, when it undoubtedly would have to be raised again in the future. Make the necessary repairs now.
I feel it is imperative for the Democrats to get off the dime and start after the conservatives NOW. The above proposal does 2 things: it corrects any shortfall before it occurs, AND, more importantly, it gives a break to the poorer taxpayers who have been carrying the system. It has a great deal of voter approval. Most importantly, it is just and fair, and puts the burden of the conservativres to show that it is wrong. The fact that the Republicans won't pass it is immaterial. It brings something to the table that shows the American people just what each party stands for.
Go Get em!
Your Dad
(I love when he sends me letters)
I have diaried a few times on the issue of the Democrats offering up some solutions to SS, and while I understand that Bush is sinking himself without offering a "plan," I strongly feel that my Dad is correct.
As a Democrat I want to stand up and say this is how we can start to show, as my dad says, the American people what each party stands for.
What do you think? I will print out your responses and mail them to my Dad (I think he will get a kick out of the whole discussion that will follow.)
