To the editor: So, Veronique de Rugy says the Social Security Fairness Act is all about giving government workers windfall benefits. Really? Nah, it actually just fixes the whole mess where folks who worked in government and paid into Social Security see their benefits unfairly chopped. I know this because I’ve been through it myself. Worked since I was 16, watching those deductions nibble away at my paycheck. But hey, we all figured that money would boomerang back when we retired, right? Joke was on me when they slashed my Social Security because of my county pension. Half of what I was supposed to get. But oh, joy! Now, thanks to some bipartisan smarts, we’re finally seeing what we earned. Justice at last.
Joy Rockport, Valley Glen
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To the editor: Before diving into teaching English back in ’02, I was a private sector warrior for 25 years. So, a big shoutout to the Biden folks for realizing we government types deserve what’s ours. Sure, now I find a bit more peace—it’s like a warm hug from an extra $1,800 a month. Fair is fair.
Melissa Mazzei, Los Angeles
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To the editor: Oh boy, this column seems a bit panicky, doesn’t it? I’ve seen my share of wacky predictions in finance. But the real puzzle? Why ignore income inequality—like, the mega-rich who don’t give a dime to the system yet sit on mountains of cash. A slight uptick in the wage base could do wonders against this supposed Social Security doom.
And about blaming voters—hold up. Congressional feet need to feel the fire. They’ve got one job: legislate wisely. People struggle with juggling side gigs to make ends meet. Congress, do your job. Is your finger on the right problem, dear author?
Susan Wolfson, Glendale
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To the editor: Just did the math with my Social Security statement, and here’s the kicker. If I’m getting $4,350 a month now, the family gets up to $5,900 if I kick the bucket. More living than when alive! No wonder people say Social Security is on thin ice. Maybe survivor benefits need a ceiling or a timer. Food for thought.
Andrew Ko, Glendale
