How well do most

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How well do most reporters and Sunday morning talking heads understand the Social Security debate? Consider this example from this past Sunday’s Meet the Press. Commenting on the Social Security surplus debate NBC’s Lisa Myers said:

Tim, one thing, though, we should add about the Social Security surplus, until two years ago, Congress and the president spent every dime of that money … including the Democrats. And it is–now, it’s being treated as though it’s politically sacred. But economically, it makes almost no difference.

Myers’ first point is accurate enough. But the second? No difference? Does Myers understand this debate? Or did she just get off the phone with Mitch Daniels?

Normally, I’m not a big fan of David Broder. But in this case, luckily, Broder was there to chime in (and gently correct Myers’ foolery) by providing at least an outline explanation of why it actually does make a difference.

Well, the big fact is that 10 years from now, the boomers are going to be retiring. And unless we are saving money in this next decade, we are not able to afford the retirement and health care for that generation. That’s the big fact which people need to keep in mind.

Maybe Myers should stick to the Juanita Broderick interviews.

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