Iowans rally to protect Social Security earned benefits amid Republican threats as part of Protect Our Checks day of action

Des Moines, IA - On Friday, over 100 concerned Iowans gathered at the Franklin Avenue Library for a town hall meeting featuring former Maryland Governor and Social Security Administration Commissioner Martin O'Malley. O'Malley hosted the town hall in response to Congressman Zach Nunn's absence from public forums, despite pressing concerns over Republican-proposed cuts to earned benefits like Social Security and Medicaid.

The town hall was part of a national Protect Our Checks day of action featuring over 50 events across the country. Attendees shared how they and their families are being directly impacted by Congressman Zach Nunn’s support for cuts and job losses at the Social Security Administration — forcing local offices to make staffing cuts, implement funding freezes, and reduce the services they provide. Instead of protecting constituents and ensuring the vital resources they rely on are protected, Congressman Nunn has prioritized tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy and corporations.

Attendees shared their concerns and personal stories, echoing the sentiments of those facing cuts to Medicaid and SNAP, recently cut by Republicans to fund tax breaks for the wealthy. The event underscored the ongoing struggle against Republican-backed policies that threaten the security of earned benefits, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and activism.

“Social Security is on a cliff –  if we don’t act now – it could fall after 90 years of keeping its promise to America’s workers and retirees. Now, with a Republican majority in all three branches of government, that promise faces the greatest threat in its history,” O’Malley said. “We are closer than ever to the unthinkable: Millions across the country are missing the checks they’ve earned and rely on. We must stand together to protect Social Security not only for today’s seniors, but for every generation that follows.”