| Issue Statements - Key Issues |
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The Economy
Despite recent economic growth, our nation today is confronted by serious challenges – the ongoing costs of military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, the impact of Hurricane Katrina reconstruction, skyrocketing debt and deficits, out-of-control medical costs, and the future insolvency of Social Security and Medicare.
While the economy has shown signs of modest growth, many of the key economic indicators continue to be down. Working families in California and across the country have yet to feel the benefits of the recent economic expansion and Americans are working harder, for less money.
With our nation facing numerous threats at home and abroad, I am also concerned that too little attention is being given to our long-term fiscal health. This is why I will work to put our economy back on the path toward long-term growth, without running budget deficits that will break the bank.
Demographic forces continue to strain Social Security and Medicare, with Baby Boom retirements adding to imbalances between revenues and expenditures. The simple fact is that the money will run out if changes are not made. I believe that a permanent, bipartisan Entitlement Commission would provide a measured response to the risks facing Social Security and Medicare, and by doing so preserve them over time. Such a commission would conduct independent reviews of the system every five years, and propose remedies to the Congress, which would be required to act on them quickly.
We must ensure that the wealthiest nation on the planet takes care of all its citizens, rich and poor alike. We've got to increase the odds that a healthy Social Security and Medicare will be around for future generations of Americans.
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