Everyday costs become clear with a single trip to the grocery store or gas station, or when the monthly utility bill arrives.
The newly announced 3.6% Social Security cost-of-living adjustment will bring some relief in January 2027. Seniors know that every extra dollar counts, but the increase will not be enough for many older Americans as groceries, gas, housing and healthcare continue to strain household budgets.
As an AARP volunteer who receives Social Security in Alaska, I want members of Congress to keep those pressures in mind. We contributed to Social Security over years of work, and we earned our monthly checks. Our purchasing power deserves protection.
Some in Washington are advancing proposals to reduce the annual Social Security COLA. When people are already struggling to keep up, weakening protection against inflation makes no sense.
Congress has a duty to protect and strengthen Social Security for people who rely on it now and for younger workers paying into the system today.
I am proud to stand with AARP in this effort, and I hope members of Congress will stand with us by supporting a better future for seniors through a stronger Social Security program and COLA.
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