Well, it is official. The Director of the National Economic Council Gene Sperling during an interview with Al Sharpton stated that cuts are on the table. He was not asked to specify the cuts, but he stated clearly that cuts are being discussed. As part of this his answer, he attempted to reassure viewers with the fact that they are intended to "strengthen" Social Security.
The relevant section of the video can be found below.
(Full video available here)
I am awaiting a transcript. In the interim I am transcribing. But the relevant statement is as follows:
Starts at 1:58
...We have big challenges...with the debt...and not every change will be completely pleasant for everyone, but if you thoughtful, and you have the right values, you can do those in a way that represent shared sacrifice, and may mean you have to cut back a little here and little there...
Again, I will try to get the entire transcript up as I know it will be parsed, as well it should. But unless I am missing something, this is the first time a member of the Administration has mentioned on the record that cuts are being discussed.
As I have said elsewhere, this does NOT mean it is a done deal. Clearly, the goal is to attempt to get Republicans to agree to revenue increases in return. Therefore, it is critical, absolutely critical that you make your voice heard loud and clear if you disagree with this compromise. But make no mistake, these cuts are under discussion. There can no longer be any doubt.
The record is now clear. The ball is literally now in our court. Let you representatives know tomorrow, the day after that, and the day after that if you are not in agreement with this solution. Let's make sure the President keeps the promise he made as a candidate.
White House: 202-456-1111
Nancy Pelosi: 202-225-0100
Harry Reid: 202-224-3542
Van Hollen: 202-225-5341
Capitol Switchboard: 202-224-3121
White House Fax: WH FAX # 202-456-2461
You can also use this link for help in contacting Congress:
UPDATE: Here is the transcript of the question and answer:
Question: So all of this about the President will change or cut social security or Medicare, your saying the President's commitment to these programs is firm and any discussion would be around strengthening those programs and strengthening what they do for seniors and those that would need medicare in this country?
Sperling: Now listen, this President, we're straight, he's candid with people, we have big challenges, big challenges with the debt, and there's times and you have to make some changes and not every change will be completely pleasant for everyone but if you're thoughtful, if you have the right values you can do those in a way that represent shared sacrifice and may mean you have to cut back a little here or little there, but for the purpose and cause of strengthening the basic integrity of Medicare as we know it, for strengthening the basic integrity and longevity and solvency of Social Security as we know if that's the fundamental goal of anything this president would ever do on those programs
(A transcription, please excuse an errors)
Please watch the video in full to make your full determination. If the full transcript comes up at MSNBC, I will add it.