Fellow Southwest Washingtonians, I know that many of you, or your parents are on Social Security — many even depend upon it. A number of you are on Medicare and a good number of you are veterans. Maybe you are just a few years from being eligible for these programs and have little if any retirement built up. Well, if you are any of these people, be sure not to vote Republican, because Republicans say they will gut these programs. This is not what I say — this is what Republican leaders say; believe them.

I hope all of you have outside incomes because if Republicans like Joe Kent gain control of Congress, they will gut Social Security, Medicare and the Veterans Administration, leaving you high and dry. Hey, you can blame Brandon.

I am on Social Security and the VA takes care of my medical needs. I have additional income, so cuts like these will impact my lifestyle but not destroy me. If you do not have additional income — well, think Third World poverty. Work most of your life, raise kids, contribute to society, pay taxes and end up with nothing, unless you are among the 10% who will enjoy more tax breaks. Again that is Republican talk — believe them. I hear Walmart is hiring greeters.

CHRIS THOMPSON

South Bend