WASHINGTON -- Social Security is in crisis, but only a serious administration commitment will overcome the Democrats' determination to keep Americans locked in this inferior government retirement system.

Social Security was long viewed as America's most successful social program. Alas, all Ponzi schemes must come to an end.

Demographics are playing a critical role: By 2050, Americans will be living 12 to 14 years longer, on average, than they were in 1940. Indeed, when the system was created almost half of people died before collecting their first check.