I would like to respond to a Nov. 9 letter writer who raised a very important issue: the importance of Medicare. I am committed to protecting this vital program, so I’d like to cut through any fiction and share the facts on my actions to preserve and strengthen Medicare. Earlier this year, I voted for one proposal that signified the first action Washington, D.C. has taken to save it.
Unfortunately, the facts are stark: according to the Medicare Board of Trustees, Medicare will go bankrupt in nine years if Congress does nothing to save it. President Obama said it best himself on July 11, 2011: "Medicare in particular will run out of money and we will not be able to sustain that program no matter how much taxes go up."
This program is too important to our nation’s seniors to simply let it run out of money, and I won’t let that happen. The Medicare-saving budget I supported would keep it exactly as-is for seniors 55 and older. Those who are 54 and younger would receive Medicare Premium Support. Under this Medicare Premium Support, seniors will have a choice among health care plans that best fit their needs – similar to the health care coverage members of Congress receive. Seniors won’t just be left to fend for themselves with vouchers on the open market (as some have claimed), and those folks who are low-income will receive more support. Coverage is guaranteed; seniors with pre-existing health conditions will be covered.
I understand that the political messaging from various interest groups can be confusing, and I believe it’s important for Southwest Washington residents to hear directly from their elected officials. I invite you to visit my website at www.herrerabeutler.house.gov to learn the facts. Rest assured, I am committed to protecting and preserving Medicare for current and future generations.
