Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) is leading a bold effort to save Social Security before it’s too late—offering a conservative, common-sense solution that protects retirees without raising taxes or slashing benefits.
In a Friday interview on CNBC’s Squawk Box, Cassidy laid out a new strategy to stop the Social Security Trust Fund from going broke. Instead of leaving retiree dollars stuck in low-yield Treasury bonds, Cassidy proposes creating a separate fund—invested in the strength of the American economy—to ensure benefits are paid in full for generations to come.
“Right now, we’re losing money in Treasuries,” Cassidy warned. “This new fund would put $1.5 trillion to work over the next decade, invested in America, held in escrow for 65 to 75 years, and used to strengthen Social Security when needed.”
Social Security Facing Cuts by 2034 Without Action
According to the Treasury Department, the Social Security Trust Fund is projected to run out of money by 2034, triggering a devastating 23% benefit cut unless reforms are passed. That could force millions of seniors to delay retirement, cut basic expenses, or face serious financial hardship.
Cassidy’s plan—developed with Democrat Senator Tim Kaine—aims to avoid benefit reductions by building a second, diversified investment fund similar to state and private pension systems. The fund would invest in stocks, bonds, and other high-yield assets to outperform Treasury bonds and create a long-term safety net.
“We stress-tested this through the 2008 financial crisis,” Cassidy said. “Even then, it bounced back fast. The U.S. economy is strong—and this plan uses that strength to protect our retirees.”
How the Plan Works
- $1.5 Trillion Federal Investment Over 10 Years
- Funds Held in Escrow for 65–75 Years
- Invested in Diversified Assets (Stocks, Bonds, etc.)
- Returns Used to Cover Future Social Security Shortfalls
- No Tax Increases Required
This approach allows Social Security to grow through market performance—rather than draining taxpayer dollars or cutting earned benefits.
Why It Matters to Seniors
For seniors 50 and older, Social Security is more than a government program—it’s a lifeline built over decades of hard work and payroll taxes. But under current law, the trust fund’s restricted investments mean it’s falling behind—and fast.
Cassidy’s proposal reflects a growing bipartisan consensus that reform must happen now to avoid a retirement disaster. By investing more strategically—like private retirement accounts—the plan could protect benefits without raiding workers’ paychecks or raising the retirement age.
“There’s strong public appetite for a smart, bipartisan solution,” Cassidy and Kaine wrote in The Washington Post. “This plan delivers exactly that.”
What Financial Experts Are Saying
Alex Beene, a financial literacy expert at the University of Tennessee, told Newsweek, “Cassidy’s plan is the kind of forward-thinking Congress desperately needs. It’s similar to a 401(k): diversified investments with long-term growth. It can reduce pressure on taxpayers and still provide for retirees.”
But some financial analysts urge caution. Kevin Thompson, CEO of 9i Capital Group, said any plan must be tested against market downturns. “Treasuries are finally yielding more, so equity investments must outperform to justify the risk.”
Doing Nothing Is the Real Risk
While some critics worry about market volatility, Cassidy warns that inaction guarantees failure. If Congress waits too long, retirees could face across-the-board cuts—something seniors and working families simply can’t afford.
“The worst thing we can do is wait,” Cassidy said. “This plan is built to grow over time and provide real financial security—without raising taxes or putting the burden on future generations.”
Bottom Line for Seniors and Conservatives
This is exactly the kind of fiscally responsible, pro-growth solution conservative Americans have been waiting for. Cassidy’s plan doesn’t rely on tax hikes or federal bailouts—it leverages the power of the free market to preserve benefits, strengthen Social Security, and protect the financial future of millions of retirees.