the social security issue is not a deficit issue, it is long term debt issue. the president wants to protect retirees, wants to make it stronger and solvent for the future because it is an important element of security for seniors. >> on jay carney's first day at the podium, obama administration spent a third straight day defending the 2012 budget, in particular, lack of entitlement reform. although the budget doesn't address the issue, the administration agrees it is a problem. >> this budget would achieve the dramatic reductions in the deficit over the next decade that are necessary to stop the national debt from growing. this is only a first step, a down payment on a long term reform necessary to address the long running deficits.