Summary
A new Gallup survey shows that most Republicans support major changes to Social Security and Medicare to reduce their costs. These programs face funding shortfalls and contribute to the large U.S. federal deficit.
Key Facts
- 56% of Republicans support changes to Social Security and Medicare.
- Only 18% of Democrats agree with making these changes.
- Social Security and Medicare support around 70 million people each.
- The U.S. federal deficit has reached roughly $2 trillion.
- By 2034, Social Security could face a 19% cut to benefits.
- The Gallup poll included 1,000 U.S. adults surveyed in September.
- Most Americans favor increasing taxes for high-income earners.
- Nearly 40% of people over age 65 could be in poverty without Social Security.
