On July 29, the Sun Journal printed a guest column by Don Berry, president of the Maine Alliance for Retired Americans. Titled “Medicare, Medicaid funding at risk,” the column made the point that cutting either or both Medicare or Medicaid would have dire consequences for those who rely upon these programs, both now and in the future.

AARP agrees. With more than 267,000 Medicare beneficiaries and almost 300,000 Social Security beneficiaries in Maine alone, politicians must begin to listen to their constituents.

That’s why AARP has launched “You’ve Earned a Say” — a national conversation focused on strengthening health and retirement security so today’s seniors and future generations receive the benefits they have earned. AARP is hosting local town halls, debates and informational forums throughout Maine and across the nation. In Maine, AARP has already engaged more than 20,000 residents in the discussion.

Don’t let Washington decide the future of these programs without hearing from all of us.

Rich Livingston, Auburn

Member, AARP of Maine executive council