News Release

Rep. Sanford Bishop holds forum on Social Security and Medicare

For Immediate Release: October 7, 2010 at 6:19 am

October 4, 2010 – Columbus,Georgia – In an important meeting with seniors in the Columbus area, Representative Sanford Bishop clearly outlined and affirmed his support for protecting Medicare and Social Security. Alongside Max Richtman, Executive Vice President of the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, he spoke with seniors at the Southwest Georgia Senior Center in Columbus, Georgia.Representative Bishop and Mr. Richtman both spoke and answered question on the importance,future and threats to Social Security and Medicare. The event highlighted the success of the 75-year-old program, and its current pivotal role in Georgia.

Additionally, because of his continual support for Social Security and Medicare and senior issues, Rep. Bishop earned the endorsement of Mr. Richtman and the NCPSSM in the 2nd District congressional race.

Without Social Security, the elderly poverty rate in Georgia would increase from about 1 in 10 (10.5%) to nearly half (46.8%) of all residents.  In fact, Social Security lifts a total of 511,000 Georgia residents out of poverty. However someone the right, including candidate Mike Keown, have indicated support for cutting or privatizing all or parts of Social Security and Medicare.

“Far too often, Social Security and Medicare are threatened with cuts or the risk of privatization at the hands of the Republican Party,”said Representative Bishop. “We can keep Social Security sustainable and viable without risking millions of Georgian’s retirement and disability benefits.  Privatization would only jeopardize Georgian’s promised benefits, and reward Wall Street. I am committed to working with Congress, and organizations such as the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare to protect Social Security and ensure Americans have access to their benefits.”

Congressman Sanford Bishop is serving his ninth term in the U.S. House of Representatives for the 2nd District of Georgia.Congressman Bishop is a member of the House Appropriation Committee, bringing millions of dollar in funding for economic development and military support to the 2nd District. He was instrumental in directing BRAC funding for Fort Benning, and protecting the Albany Marine Corps Logistics Base from partial closure and loss of jobs.