Kirkpatrick opposes Social Security privatization

Her office will also help seniors secure health reform benefits

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Ann Kirkpatrick promised to continue standing up for seniors during her sixth “Ask Ann” tele-town hall on Tuesday. More than 5,500 Arizonans – the most ever for one of the Congresswoman’s tele-town halls – joined her to talk about her efforts to make the new health reform law work for them, preserving and improving Social Security and Medicare and what more Washington can to do to protect seniors.

Rep. Kirkpatrick took questions during the call about what exactly health reform will mean for seniors and emphasized that her office is a resource for those who encounter any obstacles during the transition. She encouraged folks to get in touch with her staff if they have questions about how to use the new benefits or need assistance with them. The Congresswoman has set up a special toll-free health care hotline at 877-733-4586 and an e-mail address for people to contact at HCquestions.kirkpatrick@mail.house.gov.

“I voted for reform in part because it will help Arizona seniors access quality, affordable care – in particular by improving Medicare,” said Rep. Kirkpatrick. “The bill will mean lower prescription drug costs for seniors who fall in the Medicare Part D ‘donut hole,’ will help folks get better primary and preventive care services through the program and move it closer to long-term solvency.

“I know that effective health reform is about what happens in our communities, not Washington. I will continue working to ensure that Arizonans have the information and resources they need to take advantage of their new benefits and protections.”

Rep. Kirkpatrick also discussed the recent push by some in Washington to start privatizing Social Security, despite the strong opposition of seniors and harsh criticism from experts in the field. The Congresswoman understands that this would expose benefits Arizona seniors have earned to the uncertainties of the stock market and the influence of the same big banks whose irresponsible choices led to the current downturn. She took the time to reassure folks that she will not waver from her long-standing opposition to the plan.

“My top priority will always be ensuring that Social Security benefits are there when folks need them,” said Rep. Kirkpatrick. “To preserve the program, Congress must be willing to consider whatever reforms will get the job done – but Washington cannot and should not put Arizona seniors at risk in the process. I will fight every step of the way to stop any proposal to gamble with Social Security.”

Other questions addressed during the tele-town hall included when exactly the “donut hole” will be closed, what the impact of reform on Medicare Advantage will be and how to make health care more affordable.
Those who could not participate in Tuesday’s conversation will be able to listen to a recording on Rep. Kirkpatrick’s website at www.kirkpatrick.house.gov within the next few days.