Washington, DC – DNC Chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz released the following statement on the 79th anniversary of President Franklin D. Roosevelt signing the Social Security Act into law:

“Seventy-nine years ago, our nation made a promise to its citizens that in recognition of a lifetime of hard work, older Americans would be guaranteed the opportunity to retire with dignity.

“President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act on August 14, 1935 as the nation recovered from the depths of the Great Depression. While Republicans have seized on recent economic crises as an excuse to renege on our promises, Democrats believe they are evidence of the renewed significance of upholding the sacred trust between seniors and our country. Just last week, a leading GOP presidential contender, Sen. Rand Paul, advocated raising the Social Security retirement age by 5 years.

“Democrats will continue to oppose Republican efforts that jeopardize the retirement security of seniors, including safety net privatization that would subject their fortunes to the whims of the stock market. We remain committed to preserving and protecting Social Security for today's seniors and for future generations.”