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WASHINGTON (AP) — Outgoing Social Security Commissioner Michael J. Astrue has some parting shots for Congress, the White House and advocates for seniors. They have all "really walked away from Social Security," he says, leaving the program "fraying because of inattention to its problems."

Instead of making the hard choices to fix Social Security's financial problems, policymakers "use it as a tool of political rhetoric," Astrue said.

Astrue, 56, has headed the federal government's largest program since 2006 — he was nominated by former President George W. Bush. By law, Social Security commissioners serve six-year terms, so President Barack Obama will now have the opportunity to choose his own nominee, who must be approved by the Senate. Astrue's last day on the job was Wednesday.

The trustees who oversee Social Security say the program's trust funds will run dry in 2033, leaving Social Security with only enough revenue to pay about 75 percent of benefits. Already the program is paying out more in benefits than it collects in payroll taxes.

As commissioner, Astrue served as a trustee. He regularly urged Congress to address Social Security's long-term financial problems but refrained from publicly weighing in on various options to cut benefits or raise taxes — until now.

In an interview with The Associated Press, Astrue said benefit cuts and tax increases are inevitable — despite fierce opposition to both. Yet he questions whether Congress is up to the task.

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) - The Republican-controlled Missouri House members have approved a proposal that would require voters to show photo identification at polling places.

Proponents say requiring voters to show a government-issued photo ID before casting ballots would help prevent election fraud. Critics argue Missouri has had no known recent instances of voter impersonation. They also say the rule could make it harder for some people to vote.

Lawmakers have discussed the proposal several times in recent years, with the debate generally falling along party lines.

On Wednesday, House members approved a constitutional amendment allowing for a photo ID requirement. Lawmakers then endorsed separate legislation that would implement it. Both measures require another vote before they move to the state Senate.

SPRINGFIELD, IL (AP) - Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon says she won't seek re-election next year but is weighing her options when it comes to seeking another public office.

She declined to give details, but she spent much of a news conference yesterday playing up her legal and financial experience.

Political experts say the move points toward exploring a run for attorney general or another statewide office and would allow for Simon to raise campaign funds separately from Gov. Pat Quinn, who's seen his approval rating dip.

It would also allow Simon to see who else is running.

Attorney General Lisa Madigan said yesterday that she hasn't decided yet on a 2014 gubernatorial run.

Simon told Quinn her decision in December. She said that in a few months she'll make another announcement about her future plans.