For millions of Americans, including nearly 90,000 here in the District, Social Security is much more than a monthly check. It is the foundation of financial security after a lifetime of hard work.
At a time when the cost of groceries, housing, utilities and health care continue to rise, those monthly payments matter more than ever. That is why the future of Social Security remains one of the most important issues for older Americans and one of the key issues voters will be considering as they head to the polls.
The importance of Social Security was underscored again recently when the Social Security Administration announced a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) of 3.6 percent for 2027. While the increase will help beneficiaries keep pace with rising costs, it also serves as a reminder of how vital Social Security is to the financial well-being of millions of older Americans.
In the coming years, Congress will need to act to ensure Social Security remains strong for current retirees and future generations. Fortunately, policymakers have numerous options available to strengthen the program and address its long-term financing challenges.
At AARP, we are clear about where we stand: cutting the Social Security benefits Americans have earned should be off the table. We will continue fighting to protect and strengthen Social Security, opposing proposals that reduce benefits, weaken cost-of-living adjustments or make it harder for Americans to access the benefits they have earned.
This is not a partisan issue. Americans across the political spectrum recognize the importance of Social Security to their retirement security. And voters are paying attention. More than 9 in 10 voters age 50-plus say they are more likely to support candidates who will protect Social Security.
That matters because voters 50-plus are the largest and most reliable voting bloc in the country. Election after election, they turn out at higher rates than other age groups and play a decisive role in determining outcomes.
Here in the District, voters 50-plus are paying close attention not only to Social Security, but also to issues like affordable housing, caregiving, health care and the cost of living. They want leaders who understand these challenges and are prepared to act.
As Election Day approaches, AARP remains committed to providing trusted, nonpartisan information so voters can make informed decisions. We do not endorse candidates or political parties. Instead, we help people understand when, where and how to vote, while providing information about candidates’ positions on Social Security, among other issues that matter most to older adults and their families. Check out our 2026 Candidate Voter Guide at aarp.org/DCVotes or scan the QR code on the page.
In an era of misinformation and political noise, access to reliable information is more important than ever. Our goal is simple: empower voters with the facts they need to participate confidently in the democratic process.
Social Security has been the cornerstone of retirement security for generations. Americans have earned every dollar of it. The decisions made by elected leaders will shape its future, but voters will decide who those leaders are.
Candidates would be wise to listen. The question is whether they are paying attention to the voters who will once again help decide the outcome of the election.
