Allan Jeffery’s column “Entitlements We Can No Longer Afford” (Nov. 14) was, using a current expression, “spot on.”

The major entitlement programs — Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid — have projected unfunded liabilities somewhere north of $50 trillion. As with all Ponzi schemes, and these programs are just that, early participants will remain strong supporters right up to the inevitable financial collapse.

Last week the president’s “Deficit Reduction Commission” released a preliminary report indicating those areas they intend targeting to reduce the growth of government debt. Predictably, the initial reaction from both Republicans and Democrats was to circle the wagons around their sacred cows, specifically, entitlements for the Democrats and the military for the Republicans.

My personal take on entitlements is that nothing of any significance will ever be done without major voter support. Support must come from a well-organized group of 50-year-old-plus voters demanding congressional action to restructure entitlements and stop today’s unsustainable growth of the debt. Without this groundswell support, Congress will lack the courage to act against their self interest, namely, their re-election.

What parent or grandparent would ever consider taking their children’s or grandchildren’s virtual credit card to run up unbelievable charges for personal health, including prescription drugs and certain other retirement needs? Well, my fellow seniors, with the support of a willing Congress, that is exactly what we have been doing for many years. This, while most of us profess undying love for our progeny.

It’s time to step back from the entitlements punchbowl or at least reduce the serving size.

Michael J. Keogh

Pinehurst