Candidates: Take a Stand for Social Security

The campaign season is well under way, and AARP wants candidates to tell voters how they would update Social Security for the 21st century and keep the promise for future generations.

At rallies, in letters to editors and through social media, AARP volunteers are asking candidates to take a stand on the issue. If lawmakers fail to take action, Social Security benefits could be reduced by about 23 percent by 2035.

“Every working and retired person in the country will be affected by decisions made today on this program,” said Mike Humes, an AARP Connecticut spokesman.

About 91 percent of state residents 65 and older received Social Security in 2014, with an average annual benefit of about $17,500. Without Social Security income, an additional 31 percent of those people would fall into poverty.

To get involved in the issue, contact Elaine Werner at ewerner@aarp.org or 860-548-3169.