On Thursday, November 8, middle-class families from Wisconsin told their stories about how they would be hurt if Congress cuts Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security to extend George Bush’s tax cuts for the top 2%.
At a press event at Rep. Gwen Moore’s downtown office, workers joined with Executive Vice President Arlene Holt Baker to encourage elected representatives to hold the line in the lame duck session, stand up to special interests and fully preserve important programs like Social Security and Medicare that many Americans depend on.
“I’ve spent my entire life working hard to pay the bills for myself and my family. I believe that every person deserves the chance to retire in dignity. Shame on any Congressperson that does not share that core American belief,” said Brad Esson, a Machinist from Racine. “I just voted on Tuesday because I believe in family-protecting programs like Medicare, Social Security and Medicaid and making the top 2% pay their fair share. Now it’s time for Congress to work together to preserve in full these family protecting programs.”
Rep. Gwen Moore was in attendance to listen to constituents and explain her stance on the lame duck session.
"We have seen from this election that voters have said that they indeed want to see the wealthy and those who are more able help contribute to this tremendous deficient," said Rep. Gwen Moore. "I pledge to you, my constituents, that I will preserve Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid when I cast my vote this session."
Tuesday’s election presented a clear choice between two very different visions for our country and our economy. Voters chose the promise of an America that works for everyone, not just the wealthy few; an America where everyone plays by the same rules.
“The election may have just ended, but Wisconsin working families are already mobilizing to hold their elected officials accountable because we can’t afford to make cuts to Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security,” said Phil Neuenfeldt, President of the Wisconsin State AFL-CIO. “The people advocating for these cuts are the same people who want to cut taxes for the richest 2%, which would cost $1 trillion over 10 years. Our country can’t afford these cuts and working families who rely on these vital programs should not have to pay for more tax breaks for those who need them the least.”
