Fox News is reporting that American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) has lost 60,000 members since July 1, 2009. Keep reading to see why the following claims are BS.
Hannity claimed loss of 60,000 members “very indicative.” On August 18, Fox News’ Sean Hannity stated: “[W]hat are we to make of the AARP? According to reports now — CBS News had a report — 60,000 members of the AARP have left. I think that’s very indicative that they’re losing seniors. There is a conservative alternative, American Seniors for Choice, which is against Obama’s plan. They gained as many as 5,000 members.” He also stated that AARP’s “love affair” with President Obama “has cost the AARP tens of thousands of members.”
Fox News’ Van Susteren: “Sixty thousand senior citizens have bolted AARP.” On the August 18 edition of her Fox News show, Greta Van Susteren stated: “They’re out — 60,000 of them. Sixty thousand senior citizens have bolted AARP since July 1.” She then interviewed an AARP member who stated that she is planning to quit the group because of her views on the AARP’s position on health care reform.
Doocy: “Sixty thousand people: that is the number of people who have left or canceled AARP.” On August 19, Fox News Fox & Friends co-host Steve Doocy stated: “Sixty thousand people: that is the number of people who have left or canceled AARP — the American Association of Retired Persons — since July 1st. Some members are outraged and continue to criticize the over-50 group because of their support for health care reform.” The following graphic appeared onscreen while Doocy spoke:
There are two sides to every story, and in this case the other side provides the whole truth… Let’s look at the figures, first, regarding membership numbers for AARP to see why Fox News’ claims are misleading. AARP claims that they regularly lose 300,000 members per month due to reasons including death. AARP also gained 400,000 members and 1.5 million members have renewed since July 1. AARP has around 40 million members, making that 60,000 a fraction of a percent.