A while ago, there was an article in the Sun Journal with news that Social Security recipients are unlikely to receive an increase in 2016. Allegedly, that is due to lower gas prices.

What does one thing have to do with the other? Apparently, any excuse will do.

How can informed government officials be so lax? Groceries, clothing, etc., have increased weekly throughout the year. The plight of the public seems to be of little consequence to those who have more than enough to live on.

The government has issued Social Security benefits to people who haven’t earned even a penny. Apparently our permission to spend Social Security money for other purposes has not even been considered or needed.

When there are cuts to be made in the federal budget, Medicare and Social Security are first to be targeted. How about elected officials paying into both of those programs, as well as paying a portion of their own health insurance?

Any person elected to fill a federal political office supposedly represents the people in his or her respective state. It appears that many cater to those who promoted them or paid campaign expenses. Favors owned become a priority, rather than representing the people. That is appalling.

So, what else is new?

How do voters stop the trend? By being informed. People should ask questions; talk to the candidates; then get out and vote.

It matters when people take a stand for what is right. Do it peacefully, but with resolve.

Peggy Belkenny, Auburn

Editor’s note: According to the Social Security Administration, monthly Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits will not automatically increase in 2016 because there has been no increase in the Consumer Price Index over the past year. The CPI is used to calculate cost of living adjustments.