Harry Reid Petition To Protect Social Security and Medicare!

[Faux pas]

http://action.harryreid.com/landing/e140324med/

[Wounded Bear]

1. K & R

[Faux pas]

2. Thank you!

[1000words]

3. What's the purpose of this petition?

I've been reassured, by numerous folks here at DU, that there is no reason to even think Medicare and Social Security is at risk.

Relax ... Obama has got this.

[pinto]

6. The point is that Medicare and Social Security legislation is ultimately in the realm of Congress.

[Marr]

4. Signed, but I don't trust him.

People like Reid have a way of pulling a switch with statements like that. I've noticed they tend to lose my halfway through, as in, 'we won't let you end Social Security... let's institute Chained CPI and SAVE IT!'.

[frazzled]

5. May I point something out?

Much as I love Harry Reid, and much as I would always and forcefully want to protect Social Security from any incursion by the Tea Party, let me just say this:

While the Tea Party may have some crazy idea about privatizing Social Security with vouchers, there is no way in a million years that any such bill would get on the table in the Senate, much less pass. Not now and not next year. Probably not even if the Republicans gain control of both houses. What Harry Reid is saying is technically true: a fringe group of Republicans would like to threaten Social Security. What Harry Reid is actually doing, however (and again--I love the guy) is wanting to get your email address to ask you for money. In fact, the moment you sign the "petition" a message to donate will pop up. I'm right, aren't I?

Please realize the difference between real policy making, real issues facing the Congress, and attempts to gin up your enthusiasm to donate dollars. I'm not saying NOT to donate dollars. I myself recently made a contribution to the DSCC for the impending elections. But I would never do it in response to a hair-on-fire ploy like this. But of course, I'm only speaking for myself. I just don't appreciate being huckstered on emotional issues. I do like Harry Reid and (most of) the Democrats in Congress trying to protect our interests.

[pinto]

7. See your point. I get a lot of them. Yet still sign the petitions and choose to donate separately.

Either to an individual candidate or organization. I do make a small monthly donation to the DCCC.