Ensuring that our nation's senior citizens can retire with dignity is important to me. For many years now, Social Security has helped to do just that. It is unfortunate that Democrat-led Congresses have used the Social Security system as a way of borrowing money for out-of-control spending.

I want you to know that no matter what challenges face our Social Security system, I am committed to keeping the system available to you, your children, and your grandchildren - including opposing efforts that would weaken the system. Americans have paid into the system and earned every penny they receive back. Congress must not take any action that would ultimately harm the people whom Social Security is intended to protect.

Securing Social Security for today and tomorrow in a fiscally responsible way will require some difficult choices. I intend to support efforts that will sustain and prolong the strategic viability of the Social Security system.