Public pensions became the main form of unemployment insurance, as unwanted workers were permitted to retire early and draw pensions.

CNN: , Special to

He also wants to let those who retire early buy into Medicare, the government health-insurance scheme for the elderly but at a price that will compound its financial difficulties.

ECONOMIST: John Kitzhaber��s prescription | The

And by the way, I will never turn Medicare into a voucher because no American should have to spend their golden years at the mercy of insurance companies. (Applause.) You should retire after a lifetime of labor with some dignity and some respect.

WHITEHOUSE: Remarks by the President at a Campaign Event -- Las Vegas, NV