AARP President Campaigns to Protect Social Security in Oklahoma

News9.com

EDMOND, Oklahoma -- The president-elect of the American Association of Retired Persons told Oklahomans on Monday that he's concerned with the possibility of President Obama making cuts in Social Security benefits to reduce the federal deficit.

During a visit to AARP Oklahoma, Robert Romasco told staff and volunteers of the group's commitment to protect Social Security.

"The fact is that Social Security has not contributed to the deficit and will not contribute to the deficit," Romasco said. "Let's not use Social Security as a piggy bank to solve another significant problem."

Social Security is financed separately from the rest of the federal budget with contributions Americans make over a lifetime, according to the AARP.

Oklahoma seniors can sign an online petition to "Keep Social Security Strong."

 Quick Facts From the AARP:

• Social Security pumps over $704 million dollars into Oklahoma's economy each month.
• One in six Oklahomans receives Social Security.
• In December 2009, Oklahoma residents received over $704 million dollars from Social Security.
• Oklahomans receiving Social Security included:

419,458 retirees

114,708 people with disabilities

63,181 widows and widowers

59,897 children

31,301 spouses