Trump and Biden Trade Barbs on Social Security but Avoid Substance

Social Security has become a flashpoint in the presidential campaign in recent weeks, with both candidates accusing the other of undermining the program, and each insisting he won’t cut benefits.

Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden and President Trump have launched a series of ads in key swing states targeting older voters. So far, however, the debate has overshadowed the substantive issues the winner will likely need to confront, including the toll the coronavirus pandemic has taken on Social Security’s shaky long-term finances.

“Social Security is the third rail of politics,”...