provisions came in when richard nixon, a republican, was president of the united states. there is a study that's been done and work been by the government to come up with what's called a supplemental poverty measure. the increases in social security benefits in the last third of the 20th century from 1967 forward explain almost the entire decline in poverty among older americans. we are going to see a rise in poverty among older americans unless we address this issue or alter the medicare system so people don't have such large out of pocket costs. >> social security has been a hallmark of the democratic party for decades. is this something you think could be discussed in last night's debate or does it bring to be brought to the forefront for both parties? >> i'm certain social security will come up among the democrats. they have been generally talking about protecting and expanding social security. i'm surprised we don't see