AARP Response to 1/10 Republican Debate

Post-Debate Statement From AARP Director of Media Relations Mark Kitchens

"With nearly 8 in 10 AARP members undecided about who they will support in the upcoming South Carolina primary next week, tonight's debate was a critical opportunity for the candidates to make their closing arguments to them and voters across the nation.

"It is likely that one in three voters in next week's primary will be 65 and over and we know what issues they consistently say they care about: health and financial security. According to our recent polling of our members, 88 percent of Republicans cited health care as an issue that would be important in their voting decision and 94 percent noted financial security would be an important factor when they go to the polls next week. These issues are not only issues that those age 50 plus are concerned about; all generations are concerned about these kitchen table issues.

"That is why it's so unfortunate that tonight's candidate debate did not spend more time on these critical issues that matter to all generations. It is time for the candidates to provide all Americans with more specifics and solutions. In order to end the gridlock in Washington, we need leaders that will put forward answers and forge consensus on solutions to the everyday problems of all generations."