A new poll finds that 96% of voters want Senate candidates to explain how they’ll prevent an automatic 22% cut to Social Security benefits for 70 million Americans. The poll, conducted by the Peter G. Peterson Foundation, also found that 92% of Americans are concerned the growing national debt is driving up the cost of living.

Social Security’s Funding Shortfall

Social Security’s retirement trust fund is projected to be depleted in 2032, triggering an automatic 22% cut to benefits for about 70 million Americans. If Congress doesn’t act, beneficiaries could lose about $500 a month, or $6,000 a year.

Eighty-eight percent of voters said they are concerned the national debt is contributing to higher borrowing costs, including credit card interest, car loan rates, and mortgage rates. Eighty-five percent of voters said a candidate’s plan to address the national debt is a factor in deciding their support in the 2026 election.

Call to Action

Experts are calling on policymakers to take action to address the Social Security funding shortfall. Romina Boccia, director of budget and entitlement policy at the Cato Institute, said the poll’s most important finding is the gap between voter concern and congressional inaction.

Shai Akabas, vice president of economic policy at the Bipartisan Policy Center, said the electoral stakes are real. “The U.S. senators elected this fall will, for the first time, be required to confront Social Security’s insolvency during their term in office,” he said.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.