SECURITY: Look out ahead

Social Security turned 81 years old in August. While we’re not quite that old yet, we expect to be someday and hope Social Security will be there for us. But more than that, we pray Social Security will be there for our children when they reach 81 years old and grandchildren when they turn 81.

Right now, if our leaders fail to act, future retirees stand to lose nearly 25 percent of their benefits. That’s a huge impact to us everyday folks who don’t want to rely on our children for financial support. Social Security trustees said these reductions could start to hit in 2034. That may sound like a long time, but remember when you couldn’t wait to retire? Seemed like forever but here we are.

We need to ask our national leaders to take a stand and show us their plans with specifics about how individuals and entire families would be affected by any changes. Having a strong Social Security program is one way to support all Americans into their 81st birthday and beyond.

Presidential candidates, are you listening?

DOUGLAS R. CRESSWELL and JOAN BAUNE

Coeur d’Alene