Congressman John Garamendi has been very firm on fighting for every America's right to retire with dignity. He is resolutely opposed to all efforts to privatize Social Security, dismantle Medicare, and defund Medicaid/MediCal.

Garamendi believes that one can measure the greatness of a society in how it treats its seniors. The men and women who spent decades building the foundations of America must be treated with the respect and dignity they deserve in their golden years. Garamendi and the Democratic Majority in the 111th Congress have embraced this commitment to our seniors and delivered pubic policy that is providing our seniors with assistance in trying times.

The Patient's Bill of Rights, which Garamendi proudly voted for, includes additional benefits in Medicare, including free preventative screening. It also phases out the costly Medicare Part D prescription drug donut hole while offering seniors in the donut hole an immediate $250 rebate in 2010. Over the next ten years, the Patient's Bill of Rights eliminates the donut hole.

Garamendi has also championed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act in Congress, including $120 million in provisions to help seniors find jobs and develop the job skills necessary to keep up with the changing dynamics of our economy. Garamendi will continue supporting legislation that creates jobs for seniors.

Garamendi has also passionately resisted Congressional Republican overtures to privatize Social Security and dismantle Medicare. Seniors - and every American who hopes to one day retire - must know that the foundational institutions of retirement security will be protected come rain or shine. Garamendi will never let the Republicans destroy Social Security or Medicare.