August 22, 2011
Dear Friend of Liberty,
A recent radio appearance gave me the idea to ask Libertarians what they think about cutting Social Security benefits.
Last Friday I was a call-in guest on the WMNF Rob Lorei show in Tampa, Florida. I answered many questions about the LP in general, as well as about Congressman Ron Paul, who was the 1988 LP nominee for president.
You can listen to a podcast if you select the date of the show, 8/19/2011, here.
When discussing the Tea Party I pointed out that a difference between the Tea Party and the Libertarian Party was that we supported cutting military spending and Social Security, while the Tea Party typically did not.
One caller asked if I would cut Social Security for the disabled. He disclosed that he was disabled and relied on Social Security benefits.
I told him yes, I want to reduce Social Security disability benefits. I pointed out that a big difference between Republicans and Libertarians was that Libertarians would publicly acknowledge that we want to reduce Social Security benefits, but Republicans would not.
I attempted to follow up by saying people like him would likely receive help from private charity and family members.
Our platform says the following:
2.10 Retirement and Income Security
Retirement planning is the responsibility of the individual, not the government. Libertarians would phase out the current government-sponsored Social Security system and transition to a private voluntary system. The proper and most effective source of help for the poor is the voluntary efforts of private groups and individuals. We believe members of society will become more charitable and civil society will be strengthened as government reduces its activity in this realm.
The topic of Social Security comes up a lot during election time. I am curious how you would respond to our poll regarding reducing Social Security benefits.
Sincerely,
Wes Benedict
Executive Director
Libertarian National Committee
P.S. If you have not already done so, please join the Libertarian Party. We are the only political party dedicated to free markets, civil liberties, and peace. You can also renew your membership. Or, you can make a contribution separate from membership.
