The Case

A conservative assault on Social Security was turned back during President Bush’s second term. But we have a long way to go before all Americans can count on dignified rest after years of hard work.

The disappearance of pensions and decline in personal savings only heightens the importance and necessity of protecting Social Security.

The very success of Social Security as a program of shared security has made it a conservative target. Conservatives would rather turn Social Security stakeholders into Wall Street “investors” — with no guarantees and inadequate protections.

Progressives need to take a broad and bold approach to preserving and enhancing Social Security to ensure a secure retirement for all Americans.

There simply is no reason for any American worker to live his or her final years in poverty.