Medicare and Social Security are a fundamental cornerstone of our society and nation. Two programs that every working American pays for with the guarantee that upon retirement, they will have the resources and security they need to live comfortably. The importance of these programs has only become more clear coming out of a global pandemic that disproportionately harmed our seniors and strained our healthcare systems. Republicans have consistently demonstrated that they are intent on dismantling these essential programs to deliver tax breaks for corporations and the wealthy, while leaving seniors vulnerable and without the resources they depend on for financial security, health, and quality of life. 

Congressman Connolly has consistently fought against any and all efforts to defund or privatize Medicare, while simultaneously advocating for its expansion, working to close the “Medicare Donut,” lowering the Medicare age and including hearing, vision and dental coverage, making prescription drugs more affordable, retain access to generics, and holding pharmaceutical companies accountable for their actions. He was a staunch proponent of the Affordable Care Act, and has used his position on the House Committee on Oversight and Reform to root out financial inefficiency in the Medicare system, targeting the over $70 billion lost annually due to waste, abuse, and fraud. Congressman Connolly has also led the fight for federal support of assisted living facilities, which have been harshly impacted by the pandemic and provide vital assistance to the individuals and families who depend on them. 

Congressman Connolly knows how important it is to protect and strengthen Social Security for seniors. Social Security should be a reliable program for all working people in America; it is a promise from the Federal government that workers who pay into it should have access to it when they need it. He opposes any plan to privatize Social Security and put American’s retirement plans at financial risk. Gerry has consistently worked on a bipartisan basis to improve and preserve the Social Security system for our current and future generations; and given the uncertain future of both programs, he believes this work is more important now than ever.