MAGA Mike Johnson is doing that thing Republicans do when they stand near Social Security with a wrench and insist they are only here to help.
The 2026 Social Security trustees report says the retirement trust fund is now projected to run short in late 2032. If Congress does nothing, continuing payroll-tax revenue would cover about 78% of scheduled benefits. That is not “bankrupt.” It is a funding gap lawmakers can close, depending on whether they want retirees or rich people to feel the pinch.
Crooks and Liars, republishing Common Dreams, notes that Johnson went on the radio and said entitlement programs such as Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security need to be “adjusted and fixed.” He also said Republicans would release a plan “next year,” which is exactly when you announce an unpopular plan if you would rather voters not read it before November.
Republicans prefer words like “reform,” “adjust,” and “fix,” because “cut benefits,” “raise the retirement age,” and “make grandma live off less money” tend to poll poorly.
The program can be strengthened. The question is who gets asked to pay: the people who depend on the checks, or the people who stop contributing long before their mega yachts need maintenance.
Why does "tax reform" never mean that the wealthier taxpayers have to get along with fewer millions?
Remember when the republicans use the code word “entitlement “ they are talking about payroll deductions that you and I have been paying for our whole working lives. It’s not an entitlement, it’s a forced savings plan so you and I won’t be completely destitute in our old age. They want to steal your savings.