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Is The AARP Softening On Social Security Reform?

Ryan Faughnder |
June 17, 2011 | 11:10 a.m. PDT

Senior News Editor

The American Association of Retired People (AARP) - one of the most influential lobbies and advocacy groups in U.S. politics - has pulled an about face on one of its key issues, according to the Wall Street Jounal. The Journal reports that the group has indicated it would accept cuts to benefits from Social Security, the government pension program for seniors that has come under heavy scrutiny during the debate over how to reduce the national debt.

The AARP is already trying to walk-back the story, according to Talking Points Memo, saying they have always accepted the possibility of benefit cuts. 

The political reaction has been furious, with Fire Dog Lake's Eric Kingson threatening to burn his AARP membership card. Other liberals, such as Mother Jones' Kevin Drum, welcome the possible change of heart, saying Social Security needs to be places on "firmer footing."  

TPM reports that the shift is less one of policy than of political strategy, because austerity has become a popular position in Washington.

As Business Insider points out, any serious attempt at balancing the federal budget will need to involve reforms to entitlements such as Social Security. Politically, though, this is more difficult than ever. Two thirds of Americans polled say they are worried about not having enough money for retirement

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