Hogan’s Previous Stance on Social Security Poses Challenge in Senate Bid

Hogan’s Social Security Stance and Senate Campaign

Former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan, who served from 2015 to 2023, has been suggested to support cuts to Social Security and Medicare, a stance that may affect his bid for the U.S. Senate. Hogan, a Republican, is contesting for Maryland’s open Senate seat against Democrat Angela Alsobrooks.

Though Hogan has not explicitly advocated for reductions in these programs, he has indicated that all federal spending should be scrutinized. His campaign website states his commitment to safeguarding benefits, particularly for those nearing retirement age.

“Governor Hogan will always fight to protect Social Security and Medicare, especially for seniors who depend on this vital program,” the site asserts. “They paid into the system, earned these benefits, and deserve their fair share. Seniors that have already reached retirement and those close to retirement need to be protected from changes to benefits they have planned on.”

From 2020 to 2023, Hogan co-chaired No Labels, a political group promoting centrist policies. Under his leadership, No Labels prepared a platform for the 2024 presidential election emphasizing protection for low-income earners and those close to retirement, while not excluding possible cuts for other groups. The platform can be reviewed here.

Earlier this year, No Labels backed a Senate proposal to increase the retirement age to 70, impacting approximately 18 million Americans currently aged 65 to 69 who receive Social Security benefits.

Hogan was reportedly considering a third-party presidential run in 2024 but left No Labels in December to focus on his Senate campaign. Subsequently, Hogan endorsed former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, who has supported raising the retirement age and means-testing Social Security benefits.

Hogan’s connections include Republicans who have endorsed cutting Social Security. In August, he organized a fundraiser with former House Speaker Paul Ryan, who in 2010 proposed significant changes to Social Security and Medicare in his Roadmap For America’s Future. The plan was criticized by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities for potentially resulting in a 28% cut to Social Security by 2080 and insolvency by 2040.

Hogan also maintains a relationship with former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, who proposed extensive cuts to Social Security during his 2016 presidential campaign. These proposals included raising the retirement age to 69 and implementing means testing for benefits. Hogan referred to Christie as a “mentor” in a 2020 radio interview.

According to an AARP poll from August, 52% of older Maryland voters rely on or expect to rely on Social Security as a primary income source. Furthermore, 79% of respondents stated that a candidate’s position on Social Security is “very or extremely important” to their voting decision.

In light of these discussions, a spokesperson for Hogan’s campaign stated, “Gov. Hogan opposes Project 2025 and is committed to protecting Social Security against any attempts to make cuts to the program or raise the retirement age.”