Opposition to Bush Social Security plan lining up within GOP

[papau]

http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2005-01-06-socsec-usat_x.htm

Opposition to Bush Social Security plan lining up within GOP
By Judy Keen and William M. Welch, USA TODAY
WASHINGTON — Before President Bush begins selling his overhaul of Social Security to Americans, he may have to convince fellow Republicans that voting for the changes he wants won't end their political careers.<snip>

But creating personal accounts would not stave off insolvency. Already, Democrats and powerful interest groups are aligned against Bush, and some in his own party are nervous about news reports that he's considering changing the way benefits are calculated so they would increase more slowly.<snip>

Some conservatives in the House have introduced legislation that would let workers invest part of their taxes but wouldn't change how future benefits are calculated.

Republicans control the House and Senate, but support from Democrats is crucial to building support for Bush's plan among the public. And in the Senate, Democrats could stall consideration with a filibuster unless he has 60 votes to cut it off. That means lining up all 55 Republicans and at least a few Democrats. He has a ways to go.<snip>

•Not everyone thinks Social Security is in crisis. "Medicare is a bigger problem, but Social Security is easier to deal with," John says.<snip>