Yeah, they denied it but I don’t believe them. Social Security expert Eric Kingson:
From an organizational maintenance perspective I suppose it is expected that AARP would, first and foremost, function to protect its many institutional and corporate interests. Still, it’s unfortunate to see the “800 pound Gorilla” of aging organizations play such a cautious and stand-offish game. While I would prefer to believe otherwise, it seems to me that, on balance AARP places much more value on its ability to be an inside player and to maintain its reputation as a deal maker than it does on the needs of older Americans
And so, sadly and with respect for many good people associated with AARP, I have decided to make the supreme sacrifice and “burn my AARP card” and recommend that others consider doing so as well. No more AARP discounts, free Magazines with Katie Couric, Sally Field, Michael Fox, Goldie Hawn, Condoleezza Rice, Robin Williams, Robert Redford, Harrison Ford and others emblazoned each month on its cover– all fine people but hardly typical of the nation’s very diverse population of boomers and elders. Oh well.
Fortunately, there are a couple of organizations out there — the Alliance for Retired Americans and the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare — which maintain an advocacy focus more supportive of the protections provided by Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid. For those also inclined to “tune out and drop out” of AARP, maybe it’s time for us through our various networks, blogs and organizational involvements to encourage others to do so as well. And, with AARP being so wavering in its support of elders, hopefully, two outstanding organizations — the Alliance for Retired Americans (www.retiredamericans.org) and the National Committee for the Preservation of Social Security and Medicare (www.ncpssm.org ) — will find opportunity to further build their already substantial memberships and with it to become even stronger advocates for today’s and tomorrow’s older Americans.
Check out this amazing ed in the NYT:
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/20/opinion/20geoghegan.html?hp
That ought to get the Villagers hyperventilating. It’s the only thing I’ve seen that makes a case for a plan that fits the facts on the ground for workers. Of course, without boots on the ground it’s just pissing in the wind. Because the rest of the debate, especially from Democrats, is all kabuki bullshit.
Pathetic, but predictable. Nothing we can do but mix metaphors. There, take that!!!!!!
I’ve been debating renewing my AARP membership. I’ve decided not to and to also write them a letter as to why. While the magazine can be interesting, I really hated the cover picture and story of GWB and I tore the cover into itsy, bitsy pieces. (Maybe I should mail them the pieces?)
Is this move by them supposed to keep Congress from further investigation into their business dealings? Are they scared of going the way of ACORN?
I think they want to keep selling insurance.
I love Thomas Geoghegan. He ran for Congress a few years ago, I’m sorry he lost. He’s also written some great books.
I just saw a sick ad from a group called americans over 60 that was hard selling Paul Ryans medicare plan. It was on CNN today @3 CST. sick sick sick.
AARP? WTF is that?
I’m sort of kidding. I’ve been getting bullshit mail from them since I turned 50. 50!!!
For 10% discount on stuff? No.
Besides, WHO told them I was 50? Assholes.