Florida's seniors, who represent about 22 percent of the state's voting-age population, may play a large role in how the state swings on Nov. 6. As Election Day nears, Yahoo News asked Floridians who are or nearing retirement, Medicare and Social Security age to share their thoughts on the election. Here's one perspective.
FIRST PERSON | PUNTA GORDA, Fla. -- As a 60-year-old woman in this southwestern Florida city, I plan to vote for President Obama. Here are my reasons why:
Medicare. In six years, I'll apply for Medicare. After paying employment taxes for 40-plus years, I want Medicare to be there. Obama's my best chance.
Social Security. Although I know Social Security may deplete in a few years, I think Obama understands the needs of an aging population and will make an effort to fix the system. When Romney speaks of a voucher system, I'm uncomfortable.
Women's issues. It's amazing that President Obama consistently supports women's issues. Although I'm no longer of child-bearing age, I certainly wouldn't vote for anyone who believes men should have access to erection-enhancing medications through health care but women should not have access to contraceptives. This one's a no-brainer, especially for female voters.
National health care. All Americans deserve health care. Obama's Affordable Health Care Act has made a difference for many. National health care is expensive, but it will eventually help reduce soaring medical costs.
The final plan suffered due to Republicans who were against most aspects of the original proposal. Still, citizens will have affordable coverage insurance companies can't cap or cancel at their whim, leaving citizens without coverage because of Obama.
Green energy. I'm glad President Obama supports a network of green energy sources and promises more environmentally friendly expansion.
Tax incentives and reforming the tax code. My husband and I are middle class. It's unfair we pay taxes at 23 percent to 28 percent while someone who makes millions annually pays 14 percent. I like Obama's idea of allowing expiration of the ruling that decreases millionaires' taxes. Obama's efforts to help middle class families through tax-saving incentives he initiated, plus his plans to reform the tax code to better help families are necessary.
100 percent. Romney's comments that he isn't going "to worry about those people," whom he identified as the "47 percent" of citizens who "believe that they are victims," reveal his true colors. His words demonstrate he doesn't understand or care about individuals who, through no fault of their own, are unable to support themselves. Adults with cerebral palsy, limb paralysis or severe mental illness, for example, require government assistance to survive. What would Romney have them do? Although some people may receive assistance who could work, I think that percentage of recipients is small.
The middle class. I believe Romney's actions and remarks indicate he knows nothing about the middle class or the struggles such citizens experience throughout life. Romney was born wealthy and remains wealthy. That's wonderful -- but he doesn't have the life experiences, understanding or interest necessary to represent, protect and care about 100 percent of the people.
My vote is for President Obama.
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