Allen Spence calls out primary opponent’s flip-flop on Social Security retirement age

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

JULY 13, 2026

SARASOTA, Fla. (JULY 13, 2026) — The Allen Spence Congressional campaign today released video documenting Democratic primary opponent Matthew Montavon's previous support for raising the Social Security retirement age, following Montavon's repeated public claims during the 2026 campaign that he has never supported such a proposal.

The video captures remarks made by Montavon during an April 24, 2024, Englewood Democratic Club candidate forum, where he discussed raising the Social Security retirement age for younger Americans entering the workforce.

During the forum, Montavon stated: "Social Security, if they did raise the age, it would be for people who are 20, 25, you know." He also said: "They may have one extra year of work later on just to fund their Social Security." And later added: "You could raise the retirement age... it'll take a while to kick in."

Despite those recorded remarks, Montavon has more recently stated publicly that he has never supported raising the Social Security retirement age.

"This isn't about a policy disagreement. It's about honesty," said Democratic congressional candidate Allen Spence. "If you change your position, tell voters you've changed your position. Don't pretend you never said something when it's on video."

Former Democratic congressional nominee Manny Lopez, who participated in the April 24, 2024, candidate forum where the remarks were made, said honesty and integrity are essential qualities in public office.

"Integrity is desperately needed in Congress," Lopez said. "I've found Allen Spence to have the greatest honesty and integrity of the candidates. He listens to the people, tells them where he stands and will be a true representative of Southwest Florida."

Former Democratic congressional nominee Andrea Doria Kale, who attended the Englewood forum where Montavon made the remarks, said voters deserve leaders who are truthful about their records.

"When I first met Allen, I asked him why he was running," Kale said. "He was open and honest from the very beginning. He's a man of character and integrity, and that's exactly the kind of leadership we need in Congress."

Former Sarasota-Manatee Young Democrats President Peter Imhoff, who also attended the April 24, 2024, forum, said, "I remember sitting in the meeting and being stunned at what I was hearing, basically modern medical advances should therefore cause younger Americans to be denied Social Security at 65. The meeting is genuine, the conversation between Mr. Montavon and Mr. Lopez with the members of the Englewood Democratic Club occurred. Any accusations that this conversation did not occur or is doctored is an insult to the thirty plus club members who attended that evening."

Spence said his position on Social Security has been consistent throughout the campaign.

"I oppose raising the Social Security retirement age," Spence said. "Instead of asking Americans to work longer for the benefits they've earned, we should strengthen Social Security by eliminating the payroll tax wage cap and growing our economy so the program remains strong for generations to come."

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About Allen Spence

Allen Spence brings over 20 years of experience in community service and economics to the fight for Florida’s 17th Congressional District. His campaign focuses on economic prosperity for hardworking families in Southwest Florida, securing Social Security and repealing the Trump-Steube Tariff Taxes.

A father, Scouting America leader and lifelong Floridian, Allen lives in Charlotte County with his wife and teenage son.

Media Contact

Francis Garcia | Francis@GarciaPR.com | (941) 226 - 3290