I'm so frustrated, I'm nearly in tears...

[PoindexterOglethorpe]

13. It should be obvious to the most casual observer that NONE

of those Republicans know anyone who is even somewhat dependent on Social Security and Medicare.

I happen to have the good financial fortune that SS is almost exactly 1/3 of my income. The rest from a pension and savings. I live in reasonable comfort. I can pay my bills. Buy groceries, personal items, food and litter for my cat, go out with friends about once a week, maybe less. I am even continuing to save some money.

I will add this: Several years ago I asked my investment advisor (yeah, I actually have one) if I shouldn't cash in one of my annuities and use that sum of money to pay off my mortgage. He said no. Very firmly. He pointed out that if I did that, I'd forever lose the income from that annuity. He was right. I still have a mortgage payment, which is just fine, and I have the income from that annuity. Oh, and when I die, if there's anything left in that annuity, which is likely, that sum will go to my heir.