'Democrats Swung and Missed -- Again' on Social Security, Says Hastert

"Today the Democrats swung and missed -- again. They're striking out without a plan to strengthen Social Security, but Republicans are at bat and ready to hit a home-run for the American people."

"Negative partisan attacks will do nothing to strengthen the long-term viability of Social Security. Democrats only need to look back a few short years ago. In 1999, then President Bill Clinton said, 'Now is the time to strengthen Social Security for the future . . . We can and must accomplish this critical goal for the American people.'

"Two weeks ago, the Social Security trustees released their annual report showing that the retirement program is in worse financial condition than originally thought. For the tens of millions of people who depend on Social Security, this is simply unacceptable.

"House Republicans are doing their part to come up with a solution. Over the Easter break, House Republicans held just over 500 events with their constituents to talk about Social Security. Their overall message was that Social Security needs to be fixed -- and the sooner the better.

"Strengthening Social Security is far too important for political posturing. Bill Clinton saw that back in 1999. He was willing to work in a bipartisan fashion, and so am I. House Republicans will continue to seek out those whose first interest is securing a safe and secure retirement system for our children and grandchildren."