Cato Podcast Social Security’s Popularity Problem
13 snips
Dec 18, 2025 Emily Ekins, Vice President and Director of Polling at the Cato Institute, dives into a revealing new survey about Social Security. Despite overwhelming support, Americans hold misconceptions about its structure and finances. Ekins discusses how myths about personal accounts and proportional benefits muddy the waters of public opinion. Generational divides emerge, with retirees resistant to reforms while Gen Z is more open to changes. The conversation highlights the urgent need for a youth-focused education campaign to address these misunderstandings and facilitate meaningful reform.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
High Favorability Masks Big Knowledge Gaps
- 83% of Americans hold a favorable view of Social Security across party lines.
- Yet large knowledge gaps about eligibility, benefits, and taxes underlie that support.
Widespread Misunderstanding Of Program Mechanics
- Many Americans misunderstand Social Security's pay-as-you-go structure and think contributions are saved for them.
- Nearly half do not know payroll taxes pay current retirees, fueling perceptions of 'raiding the trust fund.'
Ida Mae Fuller Example Explains Early Shortfall
- Emily recalls Ida Mae Fuller as the first recipient who paid very little and received far more.
- That history explains why the system has been 'playing catch up' financially ever since.