    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2005, Book I)]
    [March 22, 2005]
    [Pages 500-501]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Remarks to Senior Citizens in Albuquerque, New Mexico
    March 22, 2005

        The President. Listen, thank you all for letting the
    Senator and I come by. We're thrilled to
    be--I'm thrilled to be back in New Mexico. You know, it's right across
    the border from right where I was raised. But I'm here today to talk
    about Social Security. I know it's of concern to you; it's of concern to
    me as well.
        My message to people that are getting their Social Security check is
    pretty simple, and it's this: The Government is going to keep its
    promise. You just don't have to worry about it. I know there are some
    conflicting messages out there, but it's just not the truth. The truth
    is you're going to get your checks. The question is whether or not your
    grandchildren are going to get their checks. [Laughter] And that's what
    the Senator and I are here to talk about
    today, because we want to make sure that not only is the safety net
    solid for you but that there's is a safety net for your children.
        People oftentimes ask me, did Franklin Roosevelt do the right thing
    with Social Security? And my answer is, absolutely. My predecessor,
    Franklin Roosevelt, did the right thing in setting up the Social
    Security system. And now we've got to make sure the Social Security
    system works for generations. And that's why we're in town--that's why
    I'm in town; Pete is in town because he
    lives here. [Laughter]
        But thanks for letting us come by. It's great to see you.
        Audience member. It's great to see you.
        The President. How was the egg?
        Audience member. Marvelous.
        Audience member. We have the best cook.
        The President. Good.
        Senator Pete V. Domenici. We don't get
    to eat, Mr. President.
        The President. No, that's right; we've got to go work. [Laughter]
        Audience member. Can I shake your hand?
        The President. Yes sir, you can. Thanks for letting us come by.

    Note: The President spoke at 8:18 a.m. at the Bear Canyon Senior Center.

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