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MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 09:32 AM Apr 2013

Want to Change Obama's Plans on Social Security & Medicare?

Here are some things you can do:

Post about It Here on DU - Nothing wrong with that. However, it will not change anything.
Call the White House - Your opinion will be tallied, and the President will hear the totals.
Email the White House - As with your phone calls, your position will be tallied.
Send Snail Mail to the White House - Write it well enough and someone will read the whole thing, then tally it.
Add Your Name to an Internet Petition - The organization running the petition will send the information to the White House. It will be tallied.
Add your Name to a White House Petition - The numbers will be tallied.
Occupy Something - This might actually make the news, if enough people show up.
Post Your Opinion on Facebook & Other Social Media - You might influence your friends to think as you do.
Communicate with Your Senators & Representative - By far the best option of all. They need your support and vote.

All of the actions above are useful, but some are more useful than others. If you can do them all, that's a good thing. If you can't, then at least do the last one. Congress is where this will be actually taken up. Congress will be the body that creates the actual legislation that will put any changes in place. Congress is the only body that matters in this. You can influence your Senators and Representative far more effectively than you can influence anyone else. Communicate your opinion to them today. Do that first, and then do whatever other actions you want, but do that first.

114 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
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Want to Change Obama's Plans on Social Security & Medicare? (Original Post) MineralMan Apr 2013 OP
And why does posting on facebook carry more weight than posting here. dawg Apr 2013 #1
It's the same. Either might influence others' viewpoint. MineralMan Apr 2013 #4
Sadly, unless they are a multi-millionaire political donor, nobody cares ... dawg Apr 2013 #7
+1. and congress knows as well. they think they can get away with it. HiPointDem Apr 2013 #14
Not so. Doing nothing says nothing. MineralMan Apr 2013 #16
"Post about It Here on DU - Nothing wrong with that. However, it will not change anything" - WRONG! Dawgs Apr 2013 #2
All of the things listed have the potential to inform others. MineralMan Apr 2013 #5
Disagree. All of those things could help to put pressure on the ones who make the decisions. n/t Dawgs Apr 2013 #10
Some do more than others, as I said in the post. MineralMan Apr 2013 #11
I think you and are arguing two completely separate things. Dawgs Apr 2013 #23
I did, I just called the White House and got a real person..... a kennedy Apr 2013 #3
Your opinion has been tallied. MineralMan Apr 2013 #6
Stop spinning, stop trying to win the blame game, stop making lame excuses, stop the mythology, TheKentuckian Apr 2013 #8
Spinning? How many of the things on that list have you done MineralMan Apr 2013 #12
I don't answer to you. I sleep well with my contributions of effort, time, money, campaigning, TheKentuckian Apr 2013 #97
Nor do I expect you to. MineralMan Apr 2013 #98
But it's our fault he's doing this. We failed him! kenny blankenship Apr 2013 #35
Its the Obedient Citizen's Duty To Beg For Change Obsequiously! n/t bobduca Apr 2013 #94
I guess everyone thinks they will be dead by the time the SS fund spends down the surplus? dkf Apr 2013 #9
Have you done any of the things I listed yet? MineralMan Apr 2013 #13
Chained CPi prolongs the surplus because you are saving more now to get more later. dkf Apr 2013 #21
OK. If that's your opinion, you can communicate that. MineralMan Apr 2013 #24
You know what? I will! dkf Apr 2013 #31
none of the things you listed matter datasuspect Apr 2013 #72
I disagree with you, there. MineralMan Apr 2013 #75
do you think those who own us are stupid? datasuspect Apr 2013 #80
Actually, most voters do nothing but vote. MineralMan Apr 2013 #82
not one thing in your list will accomplish jack shit datasuspect Apr 2013 #74
I think you already said that. MineralMan Apr 2013 #77
Unless the economy ever recovers to anywhere near its former self MannyGoldstein Apr 2013 #15
We have a chance of doing that but only if we get our energy production up. dkf Apr 2013 #34
Remember that Apollo-program style program for alternative energy that MannyGoldstein Apr 2013 #38
But, we don't like energy production ... oldhippie Apr 2013 #39
sooner than 25 years? well, i'll wait & see. HiPointDem Apr 2013 #18
Yeah that's the attitude that leads to no retirement funds other than safety net benefits. dkf Apr 2013 #26
um, well, we could raise taxes now and make the surplus even bigger, while taxing our self for HiPointDem Apr 2013 #29
Here are your options dkf Apr 2013 #40
i know what the options are, and those aren't all of them. HiPointDem Apr 2013 #41
Well these are the options that have been tested. dkf Apr 2013 #42
more blahblah from the master. HiPointDem Apr 2013 #44
no. they're not. HiPointDem Apr 2013 #45
I like your thinking. If we cut benefits enough then we will never use up the "surplus". rhett o rick Apr 2013 #20
This is a cut in inflation adjustments. dkf Apr 2013 #25
Why dont you suggest we eliminate those pesky programs altogether? nm rhett o rick Apr 2013 #30
Because coming out and saying it would get her PPR'd. UnrepentantLiberal Apr 2013 #36
Because I want my money back. dkf Apr 2013 #43
So you are willing to cut benefits? That doesnt compute. Raise the cap. nm rhett o rick Apr 2013 #46
It gets cut sooner or later if you don't fix it. dkf Apr 2013 #48
It's not broken. The whole point of the system is to provide benefits. Raise the revenue and rhett o rick Apr 2013 #55
Well then propose raising revenue. dkf Apr 2013 #57
I want you to tell us that you support raising the cap over cutting benefits. Is that too rhett o rick Apr 2013 #59
I don't support raising the cap. I would prefer an across the board increase in the payroll tax. dkf Apr 2013 #60
What is magic about where the cap is now located? Republicans lowered the level and rhett o rick Apr 2013 #62
The cap is meant to keep down payments at the receipt of benefits stage. dkf Apr 2013 #63
actually there were, they just weren't regular. payments were increased 77%, 12.5%, 13% and 20% HiPointDem Apr 2013 #33
Yes they have changed it over time and early on there was no increase. dkf Apr 2013 #49
It has always been changed to increase benefits,that's what's normal. Bluenorthwest Apr 2013 #92
'considering *cutting* the method' *is* a first. past changes increased benefits. HiPointDem Apr 2013 #104
Lifting the Payroll Cap for SS would solve more than cutting CPI KoKo Apr 2013 #37
You do realize that's a technique used to alleviate the burden of debt of governments right? dkf Apr 2013 #51
Nixon: Bluenorthwest Apr 2013 #58
You're right. MannyGoldstein Apr 2013 #17
Thanks, Manny. MineralMan Apr 2013 #22
! KG Apr 2013 #91
Note: As of 8 A.M. this morning I have done all the MineralMan Apr 2013 #19
Good post MM. NCTraveler Apr 2013 #27
Thank you, and thank you for acting. MineralMan Apr 2013 #95
I agree with your thinking. Although I doubt we can change the Pres opinion on SS and rhett o rick Apr 2013 #28
move on? just another pocket of the party. here, donate more money to democrats under HiPointDem Apr 2013 #47
Not sure of your point. People joined moveon because they were doing what the Party rhett o rick Apr 2013 #54
You forgot the only thing they pay attention to Fumesucker Apr 2013 #32
No, I didn't forget that at all. However, MineralMan Apr 2013 #67
When congressmen stop having to fundraise half of every day I'll believe you Fumesucker Apr 2013 #87
Never mind, then. Don't contact your legislators about this, if MineralMan Apr 2013 #88
The only thing that can be done with this purchased policy is outbid Pete Peterson Dragonfli Apr 2013 #50
Exactly. $$$$$ is the only way to get Obama's attention. forestpath Apr 2013 #56
Here's one good way ... Scuba Apr 2013 #52
The last place I will post anything is on Facebook liberal N proud Apr 2013 #53
Yup: ProSense Apr 2013 #61
I will be re-registering JEB Apr 2013 #64
That will have zero effect on any of this. MineralMan Apr 2013 #65
As far as I can tell, JEB Apr 2013 #76
Well, if you do nothing, the results are clear. MineralMan Apr 2013 #78
Pretty abstract. JEB Apr 2013 #83
Then do nothing. I'll just keep on doing what I've MineralMan Apr 2013 #85
You can always post it on Free Republic... trumad Apr 2013 #66
What's your point, Trumad? MineralMan Apr 2013 #68
You're lecturing is getting old.... trumad Apr 2013 #69
So, who have you contacted about your concerns MineralMan Apr 2013 #70
Well you're telling me that posting here doesn't do shit... trumad Apr 2013 #71
No. I said it doesn't change minds of those who MineralMan Apr 2013 #73
Ever occur to you to wonder why you might be disliked by a substantial percentage of people here? Fumesucker Apr 2013 #89
Actually, I'm here to express my viewpoint as a primary goal, MineralMan Apr 2013 #93
Are you here just to express your viewpoint? Fumesucker Apr 2013 #113
Calling and writing a real letter is by FAR the most important. SpartanDem Apr 2013 #79
Yes. I do that a lot, especially to legislators. MineralMan Apr 2013 #81
I was only second call Broward Apr 2013 #84
No, that isn't a good sign. That's why more people need to make MineralMan Apr 2013 #86
Do not believe that for a second. It is a tele business tactic. Bluenorthwest Apr 2013 #90
Right....like Rob Woodall and Johnny Isakson give a shit Glitterati Apr 2013 #96
Call, email, snail mail. Done all of that and learned the White House doesn't Cleita Apr 2013 #99
Communicating with the White House only gets your opinion MineralMan Apr 2013 #100
My legislators and I are on the same page, but they seem to be in the minority Cleita Apr 2013 #101
Mine are, too. I work very hard to get good people MineralMan Apr 2013 #107
For ten years I got gerrymandered into Kevin McCarthy's district. Cleita Apr 2013 #108
I remember very well working on Lois Capps' first campaign. MineralMan Apr 2013 #109
I'd add one overlooked item. Write a letter to the editor of your local / regional paper, pinto Apr 2013 #102
That's a good one, too. It will reach some people. MineralMan Apr 2013 #105
I guess I thought that voting for a DEMOCRAT for President paulk Apr 2013 #103
Did you? Well, Presidents can only sign MineralMan Apr 2013 #106
seems to me paulk Apr 2013 #111
Thank you for the practical ways for serious people to actually Cha Apr 2013 #110
Done. Liberal In Texas Apr 2013 #112
Yes. They are telling peokple MineralMan Apr 2013 #114

dawg

(10,610 posts)
1. And why does posting on facebook carry more weight than posting here.
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 09:39 AM
Apr 2013

There are plenty of people here that need their minds changed about this, too.

MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
4. It's the same. Either might influence others' viewpoint.
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 09:44 AM
Apr 2013

None of them, however have any vote on this matter. If they act on their change of heart and actually contact someone who does vote on this, it could make a difference.

dawg

(10,610 posts)
7. Sadly, unless they are a multi-millionaire political donor, nobody cares ...
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 09:47 AM
Apr 2013

what they think.

Do you really think Obama doesn't already know that his base opposes this? He knows. He just doesn't care. All the "important" people think we need to cut entitlements, and that is all that matters.

This isn't 3 dimensional chess. It's 3 card monte.

MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
16. Not so. Doing nothing says nothing.
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 09:55 AM
Apr 2013

Doing something at least gets your opinion tallied. That is what we can do. Since none of us are huge donors, that is pretty much all we can do. Go down the list and do all of those things. If enough people do, their voices will be heard. If your voice is not heard by people who can actually change things, you have no voice at all.

 

Dawgs

(14,755 posts)
2. "Post about It Here on DU - Nothing wrong with that. However, it will not change anything" - WRONG!
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 09:41 AM
Apr 2013

I wouldn't even know about these "plans" if it wasn't for someone posting on DU.

I don't read other sources, I'm too busy.

So, if I didn't read it here I wouldn't be fired up to do those other things.

Please don't discount what spreading information can do for change.

MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
5. All of the things listed have the potential to inform others.
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 09:45 AM
Apr 2013

All but the last one do not inform those who will make the decisions.

 

Dawgs

(14,755 posts)
10. Disagree. All of those things could help to put pressure on the ones who make the decisions. n/t
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 09:48 AM
Apr 2013

MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
11. Some do more than others, as I said in the post.
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 09:50 AM
Apr 2013

All are useful in one way or another. The last one, though, is the key. If you only do one thing, that is the one. I did that last night to both of my Senators and my Congressional representative. I worked as a volunteer on their campaigns. I supported their campaigns financially. I've met all three face-to-face.

We have the potential to influence legislators.

 

Dawgs

(14,755 posts)
23. I think you and are arguing two completely separate things.
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 09:59 AM
Apr 2013

It's all good. We're both making good points.

a kennedy

(29,462 posts)
3. I did, I just called the White House and got a real person.....
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 09:42 AM
Apr 2013

I was shocked, but they are answering, or at least they did just a minute ago.

MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
6. Your opinion has been tallied.
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 09:46 AM
Apr 2013

That's one of the things you can do. Your opinion is now known and has increased the number of people tallied with that opinion. Someone at the White House does answer the phone and note your opinion. There is paid staff manning the switchboard. That's why it's on the list.

TheKentuckian

(24,943 posts)
8. Stop spinning, stop trying to win the blame game, stop making lame excuses, stop the mythology,
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 09:47 AM
Apr 2013

stop pretending, stop trying to look "reasonable", stop the fucking bullshit.

MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
12. Spinning? How many of the things on that list have you done
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 09:52 AM
Apr 2013

so far. Each one has an effect. Some have more effect than others. All are useful in promoting your viewpoint. Which have you done, beyond posting on DU?

TheKentuckian

(24,943 posts)
97. I don't answer to you. I sleep well with my contributions of effort, time, money, campaigning,
Sat Apr 6, 2013, 01:02 PM
Apr 2013

conversions, and votes. I do not feel as good about some of those outcomes, while others have been as fruitful as the environment allows with most somewhere between.

kenny blankenship

(15,689 posts)
35. But it's our fault he's doing this. We failed him!
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 10:16 AM
Apr 2013

All we can do now is beg him to change his mind about the one thing he has really wanted to do as President since Pete Peterson gave him a green light to run. And then when that fails we can sit around blaming each other and ourselves for not trying hard enough. I've already bought fresh whips and ball gags to hand out.

 

dkf

(37,305 posts)
9. I guess everyone thinks they will be dead by the time the SS fund spends down the surplus?
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 09:48 AM
Apr 2013

Spend it down sooner, 25% cuts come sooner. So be it.

MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
13. Have you done any of the things I listed yet?
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 09:53 AM
Apr 2013

Do that. Do them all. Or just do the last one. You've posted here. Now, take action elsewhere, if you really want to change it.

 

dkf

(37,305 posts)
21. Chained CPi prolongs the surplus because you are saving more now to get more later.
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 09:58 AM
Apr 2013

It keeps the stream of payments steadier for a longer period of time.

That makes sense to me from a planning point of view. I wonder how many here realize that.

 

dkf

(37,305 posts)
31. You know what? I will!
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 10:10 AM
Apr 2013

Not enough people are thinking about the long term. I at least can let them know some of us are concerned about a 75 year plan.

MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
75. I disagree with you, there.
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 01:56 PM
Apr 2013

If they don't know how many of us think something, they don't actually know what we think.

Right now, they don't know what we think, or at least some of them don't. Tell them what you think. What possible benefit can come from not doing so?

Communicate with those who make the legislation. Always. About everything.

 

datasuspect

(26,591 posts)
80. do you think those who own us are stupid?
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 02:01 PM
Apr 2013

do you think they don't understand the principles of marketing, branding, market research, statistical analysis, and all kinds of other methods, techniques, and disciplines that are employed to understand what demographic populations think, want, understand, etc.?

do you think voters aren't already doing all the things you listed?

are you naive?

MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
82. Actually, most voters do nothing but vote.
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 02:06 PM
Apr 2013

Most voters never contact anyone about anything. The ones that do are the ones who make an impact. The ones who don't are ignored.

Most voters don't do any of the things I listed. Truly they don't.

Even most DUers don't do any of those things.

 

datasuspect

(26,591 posts)
74. not one thing in your list will accomplish jack shit
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 01:54 PM
Apr 2013

THEY KNOW WHAT WE THINK. THEY DON'T CARE. WE DON'T MATTER TO THEM. WE ARE SIMPLY A RENEWABLE RESOURCE AND ATM.

MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
77. I think you already said that.
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 01:58 PM
Apr 2013

That is your opinion, only. And you needn't do anything at all. It's your choice. I disagree with your statement, and I do communicate with legislators and others. You can do as you see fit. Yelling at me in all caps accomplishes nothing. Of that I'm absolutely certain.

 

MannyGoldstein

(34,589 posts)
15. Unless the economy ever recovers to anywhere near its former self
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 09:55 AM
Apr 2013

Then SS is set for at least 75 years.

So let's get FDR Democrats in the White House and Congress in 2016!

 

dkf

(37,305 posts)
34. We have a chance of doing that but only if we get our energy production up.
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 10:16 AM
Apr 2013

For the first time in a bit I've heard some hopeful news that makes me think we can do better than 2%.

GDP growth historically has been tied to energy use but when it looked like we were depleting our oil reserves that growth looked unsustainable. But now with all the natural gas and shale being developed we have a chance to keep energy use and GDP rising.

Unfortunately that isn't good for global warming, but it's the tradeoff.

 

MannyGoldstein

(34,589 posts)
38. Remember that Apollo-program style program for alternative energy that
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 10:26 AM
Apr 2013

CandidateObama promised?

That would be the way to go. It would help the economy in so many ways.

But Fox News has become the arbiter of US policy, and even a hint of their disapproval sends Obama and most other elected Democrats scurrying.

 

oldhippie

(3,249 posts)
39. But, we don't like energy production ...
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 10:34 AM
Apr 2013

At least most energy production, like fossil fuels. Renewables are OK.

 

dkf

(37,305 posts)
26. Yeah that's the attitude that leads to no retirement funds other than safety net benefits.
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 10:05 AM
Apr 2013

No wonder most Americans don't have money to retire comfortably.

You'll chance it. Then when the obvious happens its someone else's fault.

 

HiPointDem

(20,729 posts)
29. um, well, we could raise taxes now and make the surplus even bigger, while taxing our self for
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 10:08 AM
Apr 2013

25 years and letting congress borrow the money to pay for war...repeating the reagan bullshit...

or we could check in in 20 years and see how it looks and if necessary raise taxes then.

 

dkf

(37,305 posts)
40. Here are your options
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 10:52 AM
Apr 2013
http://www.ssa.gov/OACT/solvency/provisions/payrolltax.html


Solvency Provisions
Provisions Affecting Payroll Tax Rates
Present law Social Security and Medicare tax rates
These provisions modify the current-law OASDI payroll tax rate of 12.4 percent (6.2 percent each for employees and employers). We provide a summary list of all options in this category. For each provision listed below, we provide an estimate of the financial effect on the OASDI program over the long-range period (the next 75 years) and for the 75th year. In addition, we provide graphs and detailed single year tables. We base all estimates on the intermediate assumptions described in the 2012 Trustees Report.

Choose the type of estimates (summary or detailed) from the list of provisions.

We group these provisions as follows:

E1: Increase payroll tax rate, with no changes in the taxable maximum.
E2: Tax all earnings above the current-law taxable maximum.
E3: Tax a portion of earnings above the current-law taxable maximum.
 

rhett o rick

(55,981 posts)
20. I like your thinking. If we cut benefits enough then we will never use up the "surplus".
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 09:58 AM
Apr 2013

Cut benefits to zero and we will have SS benefits forever.

 

dkf

(37,305 posts)
25. This is a cut in inflation adjustments.
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 10:01 AM
Apr 2013

Early on there were no adjustments for inflation at all.

 

dkf

(37,305 posts)
48. It gets cut sooner or later if you don't fix it.
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 11:02 AM
Apr 2013

And I don't want the next guy to get stiffed. I want a system where we get back what we put in.

 

rhett o rick

(55,981 posts)
55. It's not broken. The whole point of the system is to provide benefits. Raise the revenue and
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 11:33 AM
Apr 2013

dont cut benefits. It's a Repub meme that SS is broken.

 

dkf

(37,305 posts)
57. Well then propose raising revenue.
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 11:41 AM
Apr 2013

All I know is doing nothing is likely to deplete the fund resulting in a drop in benefits of 25%.

Chained CPI is nothing compared to that.

 

rhett o rick

(55,981 posts)
59. I want you to tell us that you support raising the cap over cutting benefits. Is that too
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 11:43 AM
Apr 2013

much to ask?

 

dkf

(37,305 posts)
60. I don't support raising the cap. I would prefer an across the board increase in the payroll tax.
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 11:46 AM
Apr 2013

SS was meant to return what you contributed.

 

rhett o rick

(55,981 posts)
62. What is magic about where the cap is now located? Republicans lowered the level and
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 11:53 AM
Apr 2013

caused the problem. You want those of us struggling workers to pay a higher share. Repub policies like this have successfully redistributed the wealth from the lower classes to the Elite 1%. I guess you are ok with that.

 

dkf

(37,305 posts)
63. The cap is meant to keep down payments at the receipt of benefits stage.
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 11:59 AM
Apr 2013

There shouldn't be $1 million SS checks for our kids to support.

And what does it matter if you struggle to save? That's how it's supposed to work. The easy thing is spending everything you have.

 

HiPointDem

(20,729 posts)
33. actually there were, they just weren't regular. payments were increased 77%, 12.5%, 13% and 20%
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 10:13 AM
Apr 2013

in the 50s; 20% in the 60s in two increments; and then cola kicked in in the 70s.

http://www.ssa.gov/history/briefhistory3.html#colas

 

dkf

(37,305 posts)
49. Yes they have changed it over time and early on there was no increase.
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 11:05 AM
Apr 2013

So considering changing the method is normal for SS.

For a while there was a double counting problem where there was over compensation.

 

Bluenorthwest

(45,319 posts)
92. It has always been changed to increase benefits,that's what's normal.
Sat Apr 6, 2013, 09:07 AM
Apr 2013

Nixon instituted the COLA and said tying benefit rates to inflation was a right of the people. In advance of the COLA, he also raised benefits 10% across the board.
"I propose that the Congress make certain once and for all that the retired, the disabled and the dependent never again bear the brunt of inflation. The way to prevent future unfairness is to attach the benefit schedule to the cost of living.
This will instill new security in Social Security. This will provide peace of mind to those concerned with their retirement years, and to their dependents.
By acting to raise benefits now to meet the rise in the cost of living, we keep faith with today's recipients. By acting to make future benefit raises automatic with rises in the cost of living, we remove questions about future years; we do much to remove this system from biennial politics; and we make fair treatment of beneficiaries a matter of certainty rather than a matter of hope."

Nixon's entire Statement can be read here:
https://www.google.com/search?q=nixon+quote+%27social+security+inflation%27&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-UShttp://fficial&client=firefox-a

"I have today signed . . . constitutes a major breakthrough for older Americans, for it says at last that inflation-proof Social Security benefits are theirs as a matter of right...."
-- Richard M. Nixon, July 1, 1972
http://www.thebattleforsocialsecurity.com/pres_quotes.php

KoKo

(84,711 posts)
37. Lifting the Payroll Cap for SS would solve more than cutting CPI
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 10:21 AM
Apr 2013

which is no longer calculated correctly. It was changed. Plus older Savers can't make any money in interest which would have supplemented their SS... Lift the Cap and all is done.

That Obama wants to even mention cutting the little that SS Retirees and others have to live on when there's another alternative is shocking when the Wall Street Crooks & Bankers were the cause of this whole financial implosion..which has gone Global.

That anyone would want to penalize savers and then to cut what little they have that's tied to inflation to survive is like something out of Dickens writings. We thought we'd moved past those days.

 

Bluenorthwest

(45,319 posts)
58. Nixon:
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 11:42 AM
Apr 2013

"I propose that the Congress make certain once and for all that the retired, the disabled and the dependent never again bear the brunt of inflation. The way to prevent future unfairness is to attach the benefit schedule to the cost of living.
This will instill new security in Social Security. This will provide peace of mind to those concerned with their retirement years, and to their dependents.
By acting to raise benefits now to meet the rise in the cost of living, we keep faith with today's recipients. By acting to make future benefit raises automatic with rises in the cost of living, we remove questions about future years; we do much to remove this system from biennial politics; and we make fair treatment of beneficiaries a matter of certainty rather than a matter of hope."

MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
22. Thanks, Manny.
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 09:59 AM
Apr 2013

We can't just talk about stuff. We have to communicate with those who actually make the decisions. Even if we're not convinced it will do any good, at least we make our opinions known. Even if our opinion is just tallied with others, that's something. Better to do someting than nothing.

MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
19. Note: As of 8 A.M. this morning I have done all the
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 09:57 AM
Apr 2013

things on that list, except to Occupy something. I'm occupying the chair in front of my desk, since I have to complete a contract job today. So, that's what I'm going to do now. I'll be back on DU later today from time to time, as my work is completed.

 

NCTraveler

(30,481 posts)
27. Good post MM.
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 10:06 AM
Apr 2013

I would say that posting to du and other places like it does change things. It helps to educate people such as myself who have limited time to scour news sources. Once again, good list, and I will have a couple checked off by the days end.

 

rhett o rick

(55,981 posts)
28. I agree with your thinking. Although I doubt we can change the Pres opinion on SS and
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 10:07 AM
Apr 2013

Medicare. He is a smart man and if he cuts those programs, he isnt our friend.

I would like to add to your list. Join a progressive organization and donate via them, like moveon, DFA, PDA, The Progressive Democratic Caucus, Progressive Change Campaign Committee, etc. Refrain from donating thru the Democratic Party organizations.

 

HiPointDem

(20,729 posts)
47. move on? just another pocket of the party. here, donate more money to democrats under
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 11:00 AM
Apr 2013

this name or that name! that'll teach the democrats!

 

rhett o rick

(55,981 posts)
54. Not sure of your point. People joined moveon because they were doing what the Party
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 11:32 AM
Apr 2013

wont do. Move your money wasnt a Party action. The Party has an "ole boys" club that includes people like Rahm Emanuel. And they give your donated money to people like Joe Lieberman. In WA state two Blue Dogs that too money from the Party just jumped ship and sold out to the Repukes. Outside organizations got Grayson and Warren elected.

Added on edit: http://www.democraticunderground.com/1014445492

MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
67. No, I didn't forget that at all. However,
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 01:37 PM
Apr 2013

I'm a Social Security recipient, and have no resources to do that. That is why I actively volunteer for campaigns for candidates who represent me. I meet them. I speak with them. I communicate with them. I don't have money to give them, so I give them what I do have. Believe me, they know it. And they appreciate it. When I communicate with them, I hear from them.

Money is not the only thing they pay attention to. Not at all.

Fumesucker

(45,851 posts)
87. When congressmen stop having to fundraise half of every day I'll believe you
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 02:45 PM
Apr 2013
http://www.democraticunderground.com/10022252062

The DCCC Expects Democratic Representatives to Fundraise 4 Hours a Day, Every Day


I seriously doubt they are calling the average Social Security recipient like you and I looking for donations.

MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
88. Never mind, then. Don't contact your legislators about this, if
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 03:05 PM
Apr 2013

that's how you feel. The reality, though, is that they do contact me for donations. I respond by donating time, which I have, instead of money, which I don't have. They seem to appreciate it.

I can't speak for your legislators, and don't even know who they are. My senators are Al Franken and Amy Klobuchar. My Congresswoman is Betty McCollum. I've helped all three get elected, and have worked to keep Betty McCollum as the candidate from my district. Of the three, I know Betty the best, but I have met and spoken to my Senators on more than one occasion. That's because I'm active in Minnesota Democratic Politics and have been a delegate at the party conventions.

You don't think they know who donates time and effort? You're wrong, Fumesucker. But go ahead and do what you see fit. It's completely your decision.

Dragonfli

(10,622 posts)
50. The only thing that can be done with this purchased policy is outbid Pete Peterson
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 11:09 AM
Apr 2013

Get out your checkbooks and we will launder 1 or 2 million each through a lobbyist with access to the president, I hope there are enough of us, Pete has deep pockets and a conspiracy in place with several billionaires that also have deep pockets.

Face reality, this is not a Democracy, it is an auction and good old Pete came in with the highest bid, I don't know if the bidding has closed yet, but if it hasn't we can try to outbid him before Obama declares SOLD and bangs the gavel on the desk.

 

Scuba

(53,475 posts)
52. Here's one good way ...
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 11:13 AM
Apr 2013

This is a White House petition to "consider and promote the Progressive Caucus Budget".

http://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/please-consider-and-promote-progressive-caucus-budget-plan-we-feel-it-most-equitable/10078lWf


If ever there was an issue the White House should be promoting, this is it.


Here's the 2013 Progressive Caucus Budget release from Reps. Keith Ellison and Raúl M. Grijalva ...


http://www.washingtonpost.com/r/2010-2019/WashingtonPost/2013/02/05/Editorial-Opinion/Graphics/Balancing%20Act%20-%20Executive%20Summary.pdf


more coverage ...

Poll: The Most Popular Plan To Avert Looming Budget Cuts Is The Progressive Caucus’

http://thinkprogress.org/economy/2013/02/27/1647221/progressive-sequester-plan-most-popular/

There are several plans floating around to replace the so-called “sequester” spending cuts scheduled to kick in on Friday. Senate Democrats and the Congressional Progressive Caucus have both released their own plans, while House Republicans have not released a new plan, but point to one passed in the last Congress.

According to a new poll commissioned by the Business Insider, the Progressive Caucus’ plan is the most popular of the three:

– Surprisingly, the plan that polled the strongest was the House Progressive Caucus plan. More than half of respondents supported it compared to sequestration and just a fifth of respondents were opposed.

– A plurality of people — 28 percent — believed the House Progressive Caucus Plan would have the least financial impact on them personally. This makes the most sense, as only 14 percent of respondents reported having income over $150,000.


The deficit busting Progressive Caucus People's Budget

http://cpc.grijalva.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=70

Budget of the Congressional Progressive Caucus Fiscal Year 2012

The People’s Budget eliminates the deficit in 10 years, puts Americans back to work and restores our economic competitiveness. The People’s Budget recognizes that in order to compete, our nation needs every American to be productive, and in order to be productive we need to raise our skills to meet modern needs.

Our Budget Eliminates the Deficit and Raises a $31 Billion Surplus In Ten Years
Our budget protects Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid and responsibly eliminates the deficit by targeting its main drivers: the Bush Tax Cuts, the wars overseas, and the causes and effects of the recent recession.

Our Budget Puts America Back to Work & Restores America’s Competitiveness
• Trains teachers and restores schools; rebuilds roads and bridges and ensures that users help pay for them
• Invests in job creation, clean energy and broadband infrastructure, housing and R&D programs

Our Budget Creates a Fairer Tax System
• Ends the recently passed upper-income tax cuts and lets Bush-era tax cuts expire at the end of 2012
• Extends tax credits for the middle class, families, and students
• Creates new tax brackets that range from 45% starting at $1 million to 49% for $1 billion or more
• Implements a progressive estate tax
• Eliminates corporate welfare for oil, gas, and coal companies; closes loopholes for multinational corporations
• Enacts a financial crisis responsibility fee and a financial speculation tax on derivatives and foreign exchange

Our Budget Protects Health
• Enacts a health care public option and negotiates prescription payments with pharmaceutical companies
• Prevents any cuts to Medicare physician payments for a decade

Our Budget Safeguards Social Security for the Next 75 Years
• Eliminates the individual Social Security payroll cap to make sure upper income earners pay their fair share
• Increases benefits based on higher contributions on the employee side

Our Budget Brings Our Troops Home
• Responsibly ends our wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to leave America more secure both home and abroad
• Cuts defense spending by reducing conventional forces, procurement, and costly R&D programs

Our Budget’s Bottom Line
• Deficit reduction of $5.6 trillion
• Spending cuts of $1.7 trillion
• Revenue increase of $3.9 trillion
• Public investment $1.7 trillion

liberal N proud

(60,300 posts)
53. The last place I will post anything is on Facebook
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 11:27 AM
Apr 2013

All that does is start a flame-war.

No way, no how will I post such thing on there.

ProSense

(116,464 posts)
61. Yup:
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 11:48 AM
Apr 2013

"Communicate with Your Senators & Representative - By far the best option of all. They need your support and vote."

The best way is to pressure Democratic Senators to reject this. The President's budget is a proposal. If Senate Democrats are serious, they should include one of the alternative proposals (http://www.democraticunderground.com/10022475178 http://www.democraticunderground.com/10021871773) in any package.

At the very least, they should filibuster any package that cuts benefits.

Sanders Statement on Chained CPI
http://www.democraticunderground.com/10022618445

 

JEB

(4,748 posts)
83. Pretty abstract.
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 02:07 PM
Apr 2013

They way this betrayal feels, nothing is indeed something. Sellout Dems are worse than nothing.

 

trumad

(41,692 posts)
66. You can always post it on Free Republic...
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 01:33 PM
Apr 2013

Might change a few minds there....

I heard some have tried that tact.

MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
68. What's your point, Trumad?
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 01:38 PM
Apr 2013

I can't post on Free Republic, but you can, I suppose. Knock yourself out. I was banned there in 2006 as an "anti-Freeper," and haven't gone back.

It's getting old, you know...

 

trumad

(41,692 posts)
69. You're lecturing is getting old....
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 01:41 PM
Apr 2013

This OP is nothing more than another lecture from a former 5 year member of that shit hole.

MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
70. So, who have you contacted about your concerns
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 01:45 PM
Apr 2013

regarding Social Security? I've done all the things on that list today. How 'bout you?

I'm not sure what you expect to accomplish by telling people I once posted on Free Republic. Everyone knows that, and it's no secret. I finally got banned, because I kept trying to talk sense to people without any sense. Meta's gone, Trumad, and good riddance to it.

That was over six years ago that I was banned. Give it a break, Trumad. You apparently didn't even read this OP. It's about ways to make your point about your concerns. Every one of those ideas at least gets your opinion counted. How many of them have you contacted?

 

trumad

(41,692 posts)
71. Well you're telling me that posting here doesn't do shit...
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 01:51 PM
Apr 2013

That's fucking lecturing and that is you in a nutshell.

MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
73. No. I said it doesn't change minds of those who
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 01:54 PM
Apr 2013

will be deciding this issue. You're not reading with any sort of attention.

Posting on DU can inform others, but most people on DU already know that they oppose Chained CPI and cuts to Medicare. Discussing it here, endlessly, is fine, but telling the people who make the legislation is far more important.

What about that do you disagree with?

You appear to dislike me so much that you can't even detect when I'm offering suggestions that actually work. That's a pity, trumad.
A real pity.

Fumesucker

(45,851 posts)
89. Ever occur to you to wonder why you might be disliked by a substantial percentage of people here?
Sat Apr 6, 2013, 08:24 AM
Apr 2013

I'm not Mr Personality by any means but you really do draw a lot of fire from a lot of people.

You are a professional and a lot better writer than I am, if you wished not to irritate people you are perfectly capable of not phrasing things in such a divisive and irritating manner.

The real pity here is that someone as obviously talented as yourself with many useful things to say has alienated a lot of other posters to the point they won't even listen to you.

MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
93. Actually, I'm here to express my viewpoint as a primary goal,
Sat Apr 6, 2013, 10:01 AM
Apr 2013

and to discuss that with others. Making friends is a different goal, and I have made many here. Are some others ignoring me or finding reasons to change the subject in threads from the issues raised in the initial post to personality issues? Yes, as a matter of fact, some are.

That's expected, really. This thread is a good example of that. My post that started the thread was a list of actions DUers could take to make their opinions known about the Social Security changes. It was direct, and did point out that a lot of those actions lead to nothing more than an opinion on the issue being tallied. However, even that accomplishes something.

Rather than discuss what was written, some posters preferred to post about me, rather than the issue of letting the government know our opinon. One even alluded to old postings on another site...over six-year-old postings. What that has to do with contacting people to express opinions on a particular issue escapes me completely.

You, apparently, also want to discuss my personality, rather than the topic of the thread in this subthread. I'm unwilling to do that. You find my posts irritating? Ignore them if you choose, by either not clicking on them or by using the handy Ignore feature on this website. That would eliminate your irritation, I'm sure. Some others have done that.

Any time the topic changes from its original focus to a focus on the individual poster, the thread is hijacked. This subthread was an attempt to do just that. That happens on discussion forums sometimes. It's expected. That's OK, but it does interfere with the discussion and accomplishes no worthwhile goal.

I'd thank you for your comments, but they are off topic. I post my point of view on DU. Some disagree with that point of view, and I'm always glad to discuss that point of view with them. I have many friends, and DU is not a place where I am actively seeking new ones. I have a few people who think they are enemies of mine, too, but anonymous "enemies" are not a concern of mine.

You can count on me to continue to express my point of view on DU. That's why I'm here.

Fumesucker

(45,851 posts)
113. Are you here just to express your viewpoint?
Sat Apr 6, 2013, 07:49 PM
Apr 2013

Or would you prefer that people actually listen to what you have to say?

You are free to communicate or not as you wish, if people don't hear what you have to say because of your perceived personality then it's your own problem, a problem I share to some extent but not nearly the one you do.

I've said some remarkably stupid and hurtful things on DU and plenty of other places too but I don't have people constantly throwing them at me because I don't go out of my way to be divisive, usually just the opposite.

I've put up my own OP about how to communicate with politicians, I hoped perhaps it was true at the time but I don't really believe it any more, I think money and influence speak far more loudly in the halls of power than the most eloquent and heartfelt words.

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=439x350608

SpartanDem

(4,533 posts)
79. Calling and writing a real letter is by FAR the most important.
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 02:00 PM
Apr 2013

No matter who decide to contact effort matters to politicians. Online petitions mean comparatively little because, it takes little effort. Email is a step up. A snail mail letter is given the most weight. The more effort show in expressing your views, the more you show you care, the more they will pay attention. Take this from who has friends who work on legislative staffs.

MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
81. Yes. I do that a lot, especially to legislators.
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 02:04 PM
Apr 2013

It is more effective, and sometimes gets more than a mark on a tally sheet. I recommend it highly. But, it's who you write to that matters. The most effective letters are the ones to legislators who represent you. If you've helped them get elected in the past, that fact adds weight to your opinion.

A carefully-written, coherent letter is always rare, so that's the kind to write.

People can do all of those things, too, along with writing those snail-mail letters, but you're right. The snail-mail has the largest impact. I get an actual response from my congressional representative almost every time. And, when I talk to her here in her district, she mentions my letters.

But, letters have to be well-written, to the point, unique, and coherent. Anything less is pretty much ignored. A good letter to a legislator takes time to create.

Broward

(1,976 posts)
84. I was only second call
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 02:10 PM
Apr 2013

I called my congresswoman in NYC at 1:45 p.m. It was only the second call they got on this today. Not a good sign.

MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
86. No, that isn't a good sign. That's why more people need to make
Fri Apr 5, 2013, 02:32 PM
Apr 2013

those contacts. Thanks for doing that! If nobody calls, they have nothing to listen to, and will do whatever they want to do or think they should do. That's never a good thing.

 

Bluenorthwest

(45,319 posts)
90. Do not believe that for a second. It is a tele business tactic.
Sat Apr 6, 2013, 08:57 AM
Apr 2013

When there are many complaints about an issue, tell each caller they are alone in this, no one else is calling. You do not know you were 'only the second call' you just know that's what they said.

 

Glitterati

(3,182 posts)
96. Right....like Rob Woodall and Johnny Isakson give a shit
Sat Apr 6, 2013, 10:29 AM
Apr 2013

or better yet, Saxby Chambliss.

Yeah, I'll be wasting my time with that effort.

Cleita

(75,480 posts)
99. Call, email, snail mail. Done all of that and learned the White House doesn't
Sat Apr 6, 2013, 01:18 PM
Apr 2013

give a shit about my concerns about Social Security and Medicare. Instead the replies try to make me look somewhere else, at the Affordable Care Act at programs I can apply for assistance. I call bull shit on the bait and switch. I have signed it seems almost a hundred petitions over the months and I don't get the impression anyone is even looking at them. My Rep and Senators are trying their damndest but frankly they are in the minority with the Washington DCers and the President would rather kanoodle with the Republicans than with them. Occupy? An option but at my age, I'm not sure I want my bones broken by the police at a demonstration.

MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
100. Communicating with the White House only gets your opinion
Sat Apr 6, 2013, 01:26 PM
Apr 2013

tallied, in almost all cases. It's still worth doing, but expecting real replies is expecting too much. The amount of communications received there is enormous, and there's no system possible that will deal with it all in a personal way.

Legislators are different. They depend on your vote. Your donations, too, but that can be worked around. I've never found it difficult to make personal contact with any congressional representative or state legislator. As I wrote earlier, I've met all of mine over the years, and have talked to each of them in person more than once. It's just a matter of making time to do it.

It is legislators who make laws, not Governors and Presidents. As an individual without a large presence, dealing with legislators is much more worthwhile. And you can do it directly, if you're willing to put out the effort.

Cleita

(75,480 posts)
101. My legislators and I are on the same page, but they seem to be in the minority
Sat Apr 6, 2013, 01:41 PM
Apr 2013

in Washington. They work hard but even they can't overcome the huge roadblocks that are John Boehner and Mitch McConnell. Ya see what I mean? I'm getting tired of banging my head against a wall. It seems I've been doing it for thirty+ years now.

MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
107. Mine are, too. I work very hard to get good people
Sat Apr 6, 2013, 04:00 PM
Apr 2013

elected, and did when I lived in San Luis Obispo County, CA too. It's rare when someone outside of a district can affect some other district. We have to rely on the people to elect good legislators where they live, frankly.

That's what I do, and that's what you do. Now, if we can get everyone to do that in 2014, things will change.

Based on what I'm seeing here, though, I don't expect it.

Cleita

(75,480 posts)
108. For ten years I got gerrymandered into Kevin McCarthy's district.
Sat Apr 6, 2013, 04:06 PM
Apr 2013

There was no way to get rid of him because our Democratic Party here in SLO wouldn't run anyone against him. This last redistricting, since we now have new rules, thank God, put me back into Lois Capp's district and that is so much better.

MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
109. I remember very well working on Lois Capps' first campaign.
Sat Apr 6, 2013, 04:08 PM
Apr 2013

She's a lovely person, and I enjoyed knowing her. I'm glad you're back in her district. Her late husband, too, was a fine man, and I'm so glad Lois decided to replace him after he died.

pinto

(106,886 posts)
102. I'd add one overlooked item. Write a letter to the editor of your local / regional paper,
Sat Apr 6, 2013, 01:47 PM
Apr 2013

if you still have one. Seems anachronistic in the internet age, yet one thing about local paper readers, subscribers - they vote. Especially in primaries and local / state elections.

And strongly support communicating with your federal, state and local representatives. In writing or in person.

MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
105. That's a good one, too. It will reach some people.
Sat Apr 6, 2013, 03:46 PM
Apr 2013

Fewer than used to be the case, though, sadly.

MineralMan

(146,192 posts)
106. Did you? Well, Presidents can only sign
Sat Apr 6, 2013, 03:53 PM
Apr 2013

what bills they get from Congress. They can propose things, but nothing happens until Congress acts. Unfortunately there is a majority of Republicans in the House of Representatives, and a very tiny majority of Democrats in the Senate. What that means is that the President proposes and Congress promptly disposes of his proposal. The current budget proposal, which included chained CPI for Social Security is an attempt to get additional tax revenue as a counter. The Republicans aren't buying that, which means that the President's proposal is not going to become the new budget. Instead, some crap from the Republicans will be passed in the House and rejected by the Senate.

Presidents make no laws. Presidents sign laws. Congress is the arm of government that creates every new bill. If you thought that electing a Democratic President would change everything, you thought incorrectly. That is not how our system of government works.

2014 is just around the corner. If we really, really want to, and we really, really work hard to, we can elect a majority of Democrats in the House and increase our majority in the Senate. Doesn't that sound like a good idea to you?

House Majority in 2014!

paulk

(11,586 posts)
111. seems to me
Sat Apr 6, 2013, 06:35 PM
Apr 2013

that it was Obama proposing the chained CPI, not Congress.

ps - Obama also has to play a part in taking back the House in 2014. Alienating the base by going after a cornerstone achievement of the Democratic Party (social security) doesn't seem like a strategy that will work much toward that end.

I would like to believe there is some masterful 3D chess strategy behind all this, rather than Obama showing himself once again as a political naif - or worse - showing his true colors as, essentially, a moderate Republican.

Or I could post some rah rah boilerplate like you've done to make myself feel better.

Cha

(295,907 posts)
110. Thank you for the practical ways for serious people to actually
Sat Apr 6, 2013, 04:25 PM
Apr 2013

make our voices heard, MM.

Contact numbers for White House:

Call the President
Phone Numbers
Comments: 202-456-1111

Switchboard: 202-456-1414
TTY/TTD
Comments: 202-456-6213

Visitor's Office: 202-456-2121

Write a letter to the President
Here are a few simple things you can do to make sure your message gets to the White House as quickly as possible.

1. If possible, email us! This is the fastest way to get your message to President Obama.
http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/submit-questions-and-comments

2. If you write a letter, please consider typing it on an 8 1/2 by 11 inch sheet of paper. If you hand-write your letter, please consider using pen and writing as neatly as possible.

3. Please include your return address on your letter as well as your envelope. If you have an email address, please consider including that as well.

4. And finally, be sure to include the full address of the White House to make sure your message gets to us as quickly and directly as possible:

The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20500

http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/write-or-call

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