Good News, Bad News

According to a Gallup survey, there is good news and bad news when it comes to public attitudes about Social Security. First the bad news: "Seventy-seven percent of Americans say they believe the retirement, disability and survivors' benefits program 'is in a state of crisis' or 'has major problems.'" I think the public has been unduly alarmed. Things are not that bad, not even close. Now the good news:

Of six possible ways of addressing Social Security's long-term funding challenges, most Americans favor two, both of which would affect only wealthy Americans.

Sixty-seven percent think "higher-income workers" should pay Social Security taxes on all their wages, with 60 percent of Republicans, 64 percent of independents and 79 percent of Democrats agreeing with the idea, the poll found.

Sixty-three percent want to limit benefits for wealthy retirees, with 55 percent of Republicans, 63 percent of independents and 71 percent of Democrats agreeing.

A minority favor increasing taxes, reducing most people's benefits or increasing the age at which most people are eligible to receive full retirement benefits.

So, would someone explain to me why it is that most commentators seem to think it is inevitable that Social Security benefits are going to be cut in some way such as by increasing full retirement age.