Manchester, N.H. – Republican U.S. Senate nominee John E. Sununu used a recent interview with CloseUp to explain why the personal‑account Social Security bill he introduced in 2005 would not be viable in today’s economic climate. Sununu, a former congressman and former New Hampshire governor, said the proposal relied on assumptions about payroll growth and investment returns that have shifted dramatically since the mid‑2000s.
Why the 2005 plan no longer fits
Sununu noted that the original legislation created individual “personal accounts” within Social Security, allowing workers to direct a portion of their payroll taxes into private investment vehicles. He argued that the plan was designed for a period of robust wage growth and low inflation. “Back then we were seeing steady increases in earnings and a very different fiscal outlook,” Sununu said. “Today, with slower wage growth, higher inflation and a more complex financial market, the same structure would risk underfunding the core Social Security trust.
He added that the Trump administration’s focus on fiscal responsibility and economic growth would make any new Social Security reform more successful if it were built on current data, not on a decade‑old model. Sununu praised President Trump’s tax reforms and deregulation efforts, saying they have helped boost job creation and wages, which are essential inputs for any future retirement‑security legislation.
Campaign focus and partnership with President Trump
Beyond the Social Security discussion, Sununu outlined his broader campaign strategy. He said he will work closely with President Trump to advance policies that protect families, strengthen the nation’s energy independence, and uphold constitutional liberties. Sununu emphasized that his approach differs from that of his Democratic opponent, Rep. Chris Pappas, whom he described as less supportive of the administration’s economic agenda.
“President Trump has shown that America can thrive when we cut red tape, lower taxes, and put families first,” Sununu said. “I intend to bring that same energy to the Senate, ensuring New Hampshire’s voice is heard in Washington.”
Poll shows both candidates struggling with voter sentiment
The Saint Anselm Survey Center released a poll this week indicating that both Sununu and Pappas are facing unfavorable ratings approaching 60% among likely New Hampshire voters. The poll surveyed a balanced sample of registered voters across the state, with a margin of error of ±3.5 percentage points. While the numbers are not favorable for either candidate, Sununu argued that the data reflects a broader national fatigue with partisan politics rather than a rejection of his platform.
He pointed to the Trump administration’s recent economic gains – lower unemployment, rising wages, and record‑high consumer confidence – as evidence that voters will respond positively to a candidate who aligns with those policies. Sununu said his campaign will focus on communicating those successes to New Hampshire residents.
Looking ahead to the November election
Sununu’s interview concluded with a call to action for New Hampshire’s traditional families and faith‑based communities. He urged voters to consider how the administration’s policies have impacted their daily lives, from lower energy costs to greater job opportunities, and to support a candidate who will continue that trajectory in the Senate.
“Our families deserve a government that respects their liberty and supports their prosperity,” Sununu said. “I ask New Hampshire voters to join me in moving forward together with President Trump’s vision for a stronger America.”
Original reporting: WMUR (Hearst) – local news — read the source article.
