Introduction

Ron DeSantis, the Governor of Florida and former U.S. Representative for Florida’s 6th congressional district, has played a significant role in shaping policy on Social Security and Medicare during his time in Congress. As a member of the Republican Party, DeSantis has consistently advocated for fiscal responsibility and limited government intervention. This article examines his voting record on Social Security and Medicare, providing insight into his policy stance on these critical social safety net programs.

Social Security

Social Security is a government program that provides financial support to retired workers, disabled individuals, and their families. Funded through payroll taxes, it is an essential source of income for millions of Americans. Ron DeSantis’ voting record on Social Security reflects his commitment to preserving the program for future generations while addressing its long-term financial challenges.

1. Social Security Reform Act of 2016 (H.R. 6489)

As a member of Congress, DeSantis co-sponsored the Social Security Reform Act of 2016. This legislation aimed to address the long-term solvency of the Social Security program by implementing several key reforms, including:

• Gradually raising the retirement age to 69
• Modifying the cost-of-living adjustment formula
• Introducing a means test for high-income beneficiaries

Although the bill did not pass, it demonstrated DeSantis’ dedication to finding solutions to the looming Social Security crisis.

Throughout his tenure in Congress (2013-2018), Ron DeSantis participated in several votes related to Social Security.

1. Vote on the Balanced Budget Amendment (2018) – House Joint Resolution 2 (H.J.Res.2): This proposed constitutional amendment aimed to require a balanced federal budget each fiscal year, barring certain exceptions. While the amendment did not specifically target Social Security, it could have led to significant cuts in the program due to the constraints it would place on federal spending. DeSantis voted in favor of the amendment, which ultimately did not pass.
2. Vote on the Social Security Lockbox Act (2016) – H.R. 5323: This bill proposed to establish a separate account within the Treasury to ensure Social Security funds would only be used for the program’s expenditures, protecting it from being diverted to other purposes. DeSantis voted against the bill, which did not pass.

Medicare

Medicare is a federal health insurance program that primarily serves people aged 65 and older, as well as younger individuals with disabilities. The program faces significant financial challenges, and lawmakers like Ron DeSantis have proposed various reforms to ensure its sustainability.

1. Support for the Ryan Budget Plan

During his tenure in the House of Representatives, DeSantis voted in favor of the Ryan Budget Plan (H.Con.Res. 112) in 2012. This plan, named after then-House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan, proposed significant changes to Medicare. The plan aimed to convert Medicare into a “premium support” system, where beneficiaries would receive a fixed amount to purchase private insurance or traditional Medicare coverage.

Supporters of the plan, including DeSantis, argued that it would create competition and drive down costs, ultimately strengthening the program. Critics, on the other hand, claimed that it would shift more costs onto seniors and could lead to reduced benefits.

Here are some key votes related to Medicare during DeSantis’ time in Congress.

1. Vote on the American Health Care Act (2017) – H.R. 1628: This bill aimed to repeal and replace significant portions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). It included provisions that would have affected Medicare, such as repealing a payroll tax increase on high-income earners that helped fund the program. DeSantis voted in favor of the bill, which passed the House but failed in the Senate.
2. Vote on the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (2015) – H.R. 2: This bill sought to change the way Medicare payments were made to physicians, aiming to improve the quality of care while controlling costs. It also extended funding for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). DeSantis voted against the bill, which ultimately became law.

Conclusion

In conclusion, an examination of Ron DeSantis’ voting record on Social Security and Medicare reveals his policy positions and attempts to address the financial challenges these programs encounter. While some of his proposals have sparked debate, it is essential to consider his overall objectives in shaping policy related to these crucial social safety nets. As the Governor of Florida, DeSantis continues to play a role in the lives of seniors and disabled individuals who rely on Social Security and Medicare, and it remains important to observe his actions and policy decisions in this context.