[Tijeras_Slim]

Likely, but that just may produce an entirely breed of demagogue. FWIW, I just figure all the FICA I have and will pay is going to my Mom. I'm not counting on a bit of it.

[Tijeras_Slim]

Correction: entirely new breed of demagogue

[thinkthenpost]

I can't stand the idea of a tax increase, (and yes IMO Social Security and Medicare payments ARE taxes) but I don't see anyway of these programs surviving. I believe that an increase from 15.3% combined SS and Medicare, employer and employee contribution to 20%. I also believe that to start with 1% of each should go to a personal account, and as older generations die off ( a bit morbid I know) that the percentage going to personal accounts should increase unit a very small amount goes to a general administrative fee and maybe some kind of disability assistance, (NOT A DISABILITY SUBSIDIZED RETIREMENT for younger folks), and last transferable to your descendants. It may be pie in the sky, but the current system is pouring good money after bad and I don't think there will be any money when I get to 67