Former long-time senator, the Wyoming Republican, Alan Simpson's comment, likening Social Security to 'a milk cow with 310 million tits,' reflects the Republican attitude to this vital American program, which makes it possible for million of the elderly to keep a roof over their heads and food on their table. Republicans have opposed Social Security since day 1.

Mr. Simpson co-chairs the bipartisan National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform, which is supposed to come up with suggestions on how to stabilize the Social Security program. He has answered the criticism of his use of "barnyard" humor, with an apology.

In a statement, he said, that he " had put his 'size 15 feet' in his mouth. adding "'when I make a mistake, it's a doozy.'' But he has not changed his opinion of the program, only apologized for openly expressing his opinion in such a candid and earthly manner.