1. United States
2. Wisc.
3. Letter

The future of Social Security is a critical issue that impacts millions of Americans who have paid into the system over their working lives. It is concerning to hear influential figures like Elon Musk dismiss it as a "Ponzi scheme." Social Security provides essential retirement income, disability benefits, and survivor benefits that keep many out of poverty. While reforms may be needed to ensure long-term solvency, prematurely dismantling or drastically altering the program risks leaving vulnerable populations without a vital safety net. Rather than rhetorical attacks, we should have an open and substantive dialogue about measures to strengthen Social Security for current and future generations. This could include increasing or removing the cap on income subject to payroll taxes for high-earners, adjusting benefit formulas, or raising the retirement age in a gradual, fair manner. We must protect a program that is a bedrock of economic security for so many. Musk and DOGE require critical oversight. He must not be allowed to strip Americans of the securities they have earned while padding his own pockets while dismantling the foundations of our nation and individual security. I urge you to reject unproductive characterizations of Social Security and instead focus on developing bipartisan solutions to put it on sustainable financial footing. Millions are counting on your leadership to safeguard this crucial program.