see "Republicans say Social Security vote is unlikely" (Washington Times, 6/16/05)
http://www.washingtontimes.com/national/20050616-121816-4455r.htm

Social Security Reform has lost most of its momentum, with House Republicans now saying they're hardly talking about it and they don't expect action this year.

With the exception of principled members like Mike Pence (R-IN) and Paul Ryan (R-WI), our Representatives simply don't want to make a difficult vote despite the importance for the country.

But I understand their cowardice...they have their jobs to protect and they have not been given particularly good political cover. The blame for the current situation lies squarely with President Bush and his advisers on Social Security who have spent far too much effort talking to people about investment returns and when this line crosses that line instead of emphasizing inheritability, choice, fairness and even the basic human dignity involved in controlling the results of one's own labor.

President Bush will not and should not give up, but he needs to make personal calls to members of Congress and get out there with a much more passionate and compelling message.

The Iraq situation will go away, but Social Security Reform is forever. Don't think that W hasn't realized that.