Statement from National Committee to Preserve Social Security & Medicare on Ryan

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Leading Seniors' Advocate Warns Seniors of Bleak Outlook Under Romney/Ryan Ticket

"Governor Romney signaled his plans to decimate Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid today by selecting Rep. Paul Ryan as his running mate. Of all the candidates on Mr. Romney's nominee list, none has been a more vocal opponent of American's vital social insurance safety net than Congressman Ryan. Ryan supports dismantling the earned Social Security and Medicare benefits of current and future beneficiaries. And, he is determined to decimate our nation's compassionate response to the health care needs of the most vulnerable of our society by gutting Medicaid.

Ryan says that he does not duck the tough issues, but if he is elected, Americans better duck and cover. If he has his way, there will be little left of the social insurance which protect seniors, the disabled, survivors and children from the hazards and vicissitudes of life.

Ryan's budget, his signature legislative scheme, would end traditional Medicare as we know it and leaves seniors at the mercy of private insurance companies. Ryan wants to raise the Medicare eligibility age from 65 to 67 and cut seniors' prescription drug coverage, preventive care services and Medicaid nursing home benefits. In addition, the Ryan budget would set up a process for Congress and the President to automatically consider cuts to Social Security every year through "fast track" legislative procedures.

Americans want to know that someone is fighting for them. The selection of Paul Ryan as Governor Romney's Vice Presidential nominee clearly demonstrates that this ticket will guarantee a knockout punch to the future well-being of middle class Americans." Max Richtman, NCPSSM President and CEO
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The National Committee, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization acts in the interests of its membership through advocacy, education, services, grassroots efforts and the leadership of the Board of Directors and professional staff. The work of the National Committee is directed toward developing better-informed citizens and voters.

Media Inquiries to:
Pamela Causey 202-216-8378/202-236-2123
Kim Wright 202-216-8414 http://www.ncpssm.org