logo
Brief Publisher Logo
FACT BRIEF

Has Ron Johnson compared Social Security to candy?

By Erin Gretzinger
View this fact brief on Wisconsin Watch
Copy link
email
Copy featured image
email
YES

U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson said in a 2013 speech that he likes to use an analogy that compares Social Security to "candy" that the "left is giving away."

Johnson said conservatives point out the problems with Social Security's solvency while Democrats maintain the entitlement program — funded primarily by payroll taxes paid by workers and employers — is doing OK. Johnson likened Social Security to a dental cavity that "caused an infection that's in the body, and if we don't cure it, you're gonna die." 

On the 2022 campaign trail, Johnson has said he wants to "save" Social Security by making its funding discretionary, meaning Congress would annually approve it. "Social Security and Medicare both face long-term financial shortfalls under currently scheduled benefits and financing," the Social Security Adminstration said in 2022. But some critics say requiring annual approval by Congress would jeopardize benefits. 

This fact brief is responsive to conversations such as this one.
Sources
Jud Lounsbury Ron Johnson: Social Security is "Candy the Left is Giving Away"
WKOW Sen. Johnson responds after former Pres. Obama blasts him on Social Security
Wisconsin Public Radio Ron Johnson calls for annual approval of Social Security, Medicare funding
ABC News Is Social Security on the GOP's 'chopping block' as Biden claims? Experts weigh in
US Social Security Administration How is Social Security financed?
US Social Security Administration Trustees Report Summary
ABOUT THE CONTRIBUTOR
Wisconsin Watch
Wisconsin Watch, the news arm of the nonpartisan, nonprofit Wisconsin Center for Investigative Journalism, increases the quality and quantity of investigative reporting in Wisconsin, while training current and future investigative journalists. Its work fosters an informed citizenry and strengthens democracy.
FACT BRIEF BY
Brief Publisher Logo
Latest fact briefs from Wisconsin Watch
facebook
twitter
email
email
About fact briefs published on Gigafact
Fact briefs are short, credibly sourced summaries that offer “yes/no” answers in response to claims found online. They rely on publicly available, often primary source data and documents. Fact briefs are created by contributors to Gigafact —a nonprofit project looking to expand participation in fact-checking and protect the democratic process. See all fact briefs here.