By Gary Hubbard, USW Public Affairs

Jobs, not reducing the national debt, is the greatest challenge America faces today, U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders told delegates in a rousing, boisterous podium address.

“Creating the millions of new jobs that we desperately need is not only vitally important to the economy but will be the means by which we reduce the deficit over the long term,” said Sanders (I-Vt.), who noted that the 9 percent official unemployment rate jumps to 16 percent when those who are underemployed are counted.

“New jobs mean more government revenue, which makes a lot more sense than having to spend billions on unemployment compensation, food stamps and other programs needed during a severe recession.”

Sanders’ vision includes rebuilding the nation’s crumbling infrastructure, transforming the energy system and rewriting trade policy so that American products – not jobs – are our number one export.

“We need jobs that pay decent wages, jobs in the U.S. – not jobs in China,” he declared.

Sanders, who said the USW members he addressed “give inspiration and hope,” received repeated standing ovations. His vigorous opposition to efforts to cut Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid benefits brought the biggest crowd response.

“Social Security has not contributed a nickel to the deficit, it has a $2.6 trillion surplus, and it can pay out every benefit owed to every eligible American for the next 25 years.” Sanders was adamant that it must not be cut.

He declared, “Instead of balancing the budget on the backs of working families, the elderly, the children, the sick, and the most vulnerable, it is time to ask the wealthiest people and most profitable corporations in this county to pay their fair share.”

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