Article Summary –
Republican Rob Bresnahan, running for Pennsylvania’s 8th Congressional District seat, proposes a constitutional amendment for a balanced budget, a move experts argue would necessitate significant cuts to programs like Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. Although Bresnahan insists he opposes such cuts, fiscal analyses suggest balancing the budget without raising taxes would demand drastic spending reductions across numerous programs. In contrast, his opponent, Democratic incumbent Matt Cartwright, has a record of supporting and strengthening Social Security and Medicare, gaining endorsements from advocacy groups like the Alliance for Retired Americans.
Republican Rob Bresnahan, vying for Pennsylvania’s 8th Congressional District, endorses a U.S. Constitution amendment for an annual balanced budget. Analysts argue Bresnahan’s fiscal plans would be impossible without deep cuts to Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid.
Bresnahan, a venture capitalist, challenges Democratic Rep. Matt Cartwright this November. The district covers Wayne, Pike, Lackawanna, and parts of Luzerne and Monroe counties.
At a Sept. 25 event in Drums, Luzerne County, Bresnahan expressed a strong belief in a balanced budget amendment, stating, “I signed a pledge that I would support a balanced budget amendment.”
The federal government runs a budget deficit, spending more than it earns. Proposals for a constitutional amendment to balance budgets, except during war, often face criticism for potentially worsening recessions.
The U.S. Treasury notes a fiscal year 2024 deficit of about $1.9 trillion. To close this gap, Congress must either increase revenue or significantly cut spending.
On his campaign website, Bresnahan advocates for halting “reckless spending,” controlling inflation, and reducing taxes.
A March 2023 analysis by the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget indicates that balancing the budget in 10 years without tax increases would need a 27% cut to key programs like Social Security and Medicare.
Bresnahan’s campaign was unavailable for comment. He has opposed Medicare and Social Security cuts, remarking, “You paid into the system, and the government must honor its promise.”
The National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare warned in July about severe program cuts if a balanced budget amendment and further tax cuts are enacted.
Max Richtman, CEO of the National Committee, stated, “Bresnahan cannot keep his promise without forcing cuts.” He urged Northeast Pennsylvanians to trust Matt Cartwright to protect their benefits.
Cartwright, endorsed by the Alliance for Retired Americans, is committed to safeguarding Social Security and reducing prescription costs.
Cartwright’s campaign site highlights his dedication to Social Security: “Matt supports enhancing benefits for Social Security beneficiaries, vital since adjustments lag since 1972. He champions dignity and financial security for retirees.”
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