Medicare Turns 45

Although 20 years short of qualifying for its own benefits, Medicare nevertheless reached an important milestone Friday.

45 years ago, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed Medicare, the social insurance safety-net, into law.

President Barack Obama marked the anniversary by issuing a proclamation lauding the program and pledging its continued support under his administration.

“As President, I will protect the promise of Medicare and Medicaid, and make sure they continue to be strong and solvent for our children and grandchildren,” Obama wrote.

The President also took the anniversary as an opportunity to tout the health care reform legislation he signed into law this March.

“The health care reforms in the landmark Affordable Care Act (ACA) renew and strengthen our pledge to America’s seniors and families, ensuring Medicare and Medicaid will be there when they need it,” the proclamation states.

Also acknowledging the milestone, the Republican National Committee issued their own statement charging that Medicare will be slashed under the new health care law and accusing Obama of backtracking on his pledge to seniors to protect the program.

“Happy 45h Birthday, Medicare!” the statement reads. “President Obama gave plenty of “gifts” to seniors on Medicare this year.”