Survey Finds Conservative Americans Want Political Candidates to Address Social Security in the 2012 Election

Generation America, a membership organization for Americans over 50, recently completed a survey of its members and found that conservative Americans want politicians to address the issue of Social Security in the 2012 presidential election.

Americans want candidates to address Social Security in the 2012 presidential election. PHOTO: MEDIAITE

The survey was conducted by Generation America’s media and research partner, Parker Media, from September 19 through September 20, 2011. More than 3,300 respondents provided their views on the current state of Social Security, as well as potential solutions for the system.

The presidential candidates in the current election cycle are running on similar campaign promises. But regardless of the specific candidate, the recent Generation America survey found an overwhelming majority of Americans--92 percent--want Social Security to be addressed in the 2012 presidential campaign.

Only 9.7 percent of survey participants reported to be confident in the ability of Social Security to effectively complete its mission. While 25.8 percent of respondents were confident that Social Security would reliably pay benefits during their own retirement, 42.2 percent were either doubtful or extremely doubtful of that possibility.

When asked if they believed Social Security would reliably pay benefits to future generations, only 1 percent of respondents reported to be confident. Almost 94 percent were doubtful or extremely doubtful.

The survey also reflected Americans’ diverse opinions regarding potential solutions of Social Security: 41.1 percent of respondents believe that Social Security should be reclaimed for future and current beneficiaries, while 36.6 percent believe it should be privatized and 7.7 percent believe the system should be abolished, leaving individuals entirely responsible for their retirement.

-Ramona Flume