Sorry if this has been covered, but I feel like it needs to be made absolutely clear. Entitlement programs are called that because the American taxpayer has been paying into this programs, and is entitled to getting their money back in their old age. Everyone who mentions cutting SS and medicare should remember that.
Furthermore, SS is a solvent program running a surplus. Obviously, reality is that the government has spent the money in other places, so something needs to be done about SS. However, it's not true that SS caused the current spending problem.
It's also worthwhile to remember it's terribly shortsighted to cut entitlement programs. Taking away safety nets increases instability for the average consumer, which leads to a worse economy. The economy and long term future of the United States is better secured by providing for its own. The days when a first world country can do without caring for its old, poor, and sick are over, for both practical and moral reasons.
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As you can see, I'm completely ridiculous.
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