Despite fears of the government overspending on programs to right the nation’s economy, the vast majority of Americans believe Social Security needs to be maintained and are willing to pay higher taxes to do so. Nearly 90% say Social Security is more important than ever in light of the current recession, and three-quarters of Americans want the retirement program preserved even if it means contributing more in taxes. The same percentage also sees Social Security as being a key part of their retirement, and almost 50% feel they would be unable to afford food, clothing or housing without it. Nine out of 10 Americans want Congress to act within the next two years to preserve the system.