Soto Hosts Roundtable for Social Security Day of Action

KISSIMMEE, FL — Today, Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09) hosted a roundtable discussion as part of the House Democrats’ Social Security Day of Action. The event brought together key leaders from the Florida Alliance for Retired Americans (FLARA) and the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) with a focus on the importance of preserving Social Security for current and future generations.

Participants included Bill Sauers, Outreach Director of FLARA; Lorraine Tuliano of FLARA; Johnnie Walker, National Representative of AFGE; Shonda Johnson, 4th Vice President of AFGE Council 220; and Kevin Liddell, Political Representative of AFGE.

“Social Security isn’t just a line item in the federal budget—it’s a promise to the American people,” said Congressman Darren Soto.“In Florida’s Ninth Congressional District alone, 137,000 residents rely on these earned benefits each month. That’s $218 million flowing directly into our local economy, helping retirees, children, widows, disabled workers, and spouses live with dignity.”

"Social Security provides benefits to 73 million Americans while operating at a 50-year staffing low, yet the administration wants to cut the agency even further. This administration is decimating the middle class and we’re only 85 days into this administration,” said Johnnie Walker, National Representative of AFGE.  “This administration is trying to dismantle our union because we are using our voices and speaking out. We will continue to speak out to protect the workers that serve the American public daily.”

The breakdown of those receiving Social Security benefits in Florida’s Ninth Congressional District is as follows:

    •    96,738 retirees

    •    9,890 children

    •    7,073 widows

    •    18,462 disabled workers

    •    4,840 spouses

The roundtable covered topics such as proposals to expand benefits, protect the Social Security Trust Fund, and reject any efforts to privatize or cut the program. Participants shared stories from their members and personal experiences to emphasize just how vital Social Security is to working families, retirees, and the vulnerable.

To watch the full live stream, click here. 

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