SS Phase Out A Hard Sell In Eastern Iowa
Jim Leach went to Iowa City to sell snake-oil, and the locals weren't buying.
Even temperatures nearing 70 degrees Monday didn't stop more than 80
people from gathering at the Iowa City Public Library to oppose Social
Security reform proposals.
Rep. Jim Leach, R-Iowa, hosted a
community meeting for about two hours, with discussion primarily
focused on fixing Social Security, although there were also questions
about the Iraq war and the growing federal deficit.
Hands immediately sprang into the air following Leach's 15-minute opening statement on Social Security.
“I'm
agitated with the way things have been going in Washington, D.C., these
past few months,” said Jean Parker of North Liberty. “I don't think
they need to change Social Security — especially in the way it's been
advertised.”
Others, including people on their lunch break, University of Iowa students and senior citizens, mirrored Parker's concerns.
…The student population would be largely
affected by Social Security changes. [George W.] Bush has promised only
those near or at retirement age that changes to their benefits won't be
affected.
“There is so little reality about the bill,” said Ann
Bovbjerg of Iowa City. “The most insulting is saying, 'you'll be OK
(seniors), it's the younger generation who won't be.' Who are these
younger people? They are your kids and my kids.”
No one in attendance voiced support for the proposals that have been introduced by Bush.
…In
his opening remarks, Leach called Social Security “the most important
social program in the United States, arguably the most successful
program in the world.”
In
case anyone is curious (or near Kirkwood Community College) – the
latest stop on the Social Security Phase Out tour is coming to Kirkwood
tomorrow.
Here's the information from the Des Moines Register.
HOW TO GET THEM: Tickets for Bush's Wednesday event on Social
Security at Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids are available
through U.S. Sen. Charles Grassley and U.S. Rep. Jim Leach.
THE EVENT: Doors for the event, which is free and open to the public, open at 10 a.m. and close at 11:30 a.m.
INFORMATION: Contact the Cedar Rapids offices of Grassley at (319) 363-6832 or Leach at (319) 363-4773.
If anyone attends and has a “live action” report – send it in, and we'll post it! (blog@democracyforiowa.com)
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