DEBATE FACT #4: Just Months Ago, Crist Said Social Security Was “In Trouble”

What Crist Said…

That Social Security is in good shape but in May 2010, he said the program was “in trouble financially.”

The Facts About The Crist Record…

Charlie Crist On Social Security Then:

·         In May 2010, Charlie Crist Said That Social Security Was “In Trouble Financially.” CRIST: “Social security is pretty important. It’s in trouble financially and I think there is an opportunity to sort of address two issues, and help that deficit, arguably at least, and that’s coupling immigration with it.” (Charlie Crist, Miami Herald Editorial Board Interview, 5/20/10, VIDEO)

Charlie Crist On Social Security Now:

·         Today, Charlie Crist Says Social Security Is “Working.” “Crist called Social Security ‘one of the only federal programs that’s working’ and criticized his U.S. Senate rivals for proposing reforms. Republican Marco Rubio has suggested raising the retirement age, while Democrat Kendrick Meek wants to ‘punt it to a commission,’ said Crist, a former Republican running without party affiliation. ‘I’m the only candidate in the race who is saying we need to preserve it as it is and protect it,’ Crist told about 400 Century Village residents. He added: ‘There are other ways we can help fund it, by creating a pathway to citizenship. Secure the border, make sure we have a pathway that is earned – no amnesty – and if we have those 11 to 14 million people productively participating in the American economy and paying the payroll taxes that would be attended to it, that would help Social Security.’” (Beth Reinhard, “Crist Touts Way To Save Social Security,” The Miami Herald, 9/23/10)

·         And Says On Social Security “Stay The Course.” “‘This one program [Social Security] in Washington D.C. is working and will be solvent … until at least 2037 if not 2041,’ Crist said. ‘Stay the course.’” (William March, “Crist, Rubio, Meek Using Social Security’s Future To Lure Voters,” 9/24/10)

Read more at Marco 2010 Rubio-US Senate