Social Security and Tax Reform

5 January 2005

Dear Sen. DeMint,

Congratulations on your election as a Senator. Now the hard work begins. I would like to see Social Security Reform eneacted because it is inmportant as a 25 year old that there be something there for me when I reach retirement age. I am in the generation that will recieve nothing if we do nothing.

I spent the last nine months researching the issue and the options. I prefer Sen. Graham's plan to any of the others because I feel it is the best because it creates the personal accounts and leads to sustained solvency.

I understand that you are going to find it hard to support such a plan if it involves a tax increase because of what you just experienced during the camapign. However, the real heroes are those who take the tough stand, risk a great deal, and support responsible solutions. I feel the increase in the amount of income susceptible to Social Security taxes is more feasible then spending limits, which I will believe when I see it happen and more responsible than borrrowing the amount of the transition costs. I would rather go against the tax cutting agenda to get this done than balloon our budget deficit and national debt even more.

I also want to see tax reform. I like the falt tax idea and you are willing to support debate of different options. I know as a congressman you proposed TRAC; I really liked this idea. I realize that the president has already said he is going to give it to a commission, but I think that the commission should match the bill you proposed because it is a great idea.

I encourage you to take some tough stands and lumps if this is required to fulfill the agenda. I support responsible solutions to problems like Social Security. I really want something to get done so we can stop talking and start acting.

I appreciate the difficulty of what I am asking of you, but please consider it seriously.