In a move that will likely play well with seniors and veterans as he runs for re-election, Sen. Brian Schatz joined several other senators in opposing the use of the so-called “Chained CPI” to calculate cost-of-living increases to Social Security and other benefits.

The method, which was included in President Barack Obama’s budget proposal, is drawing fire because it would mean smaller annual increases.

Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, who will reportedly run against Schatz, has also cosponsored a similar resolution in the House opposing the method. She signed a letter of opposition with 70 other members of Congress in 2011 as well.

The Senate resolution was sponsored Sen. Tom Harkin, D-Iowa. and introduced yesterday.

In a statement, Schatz said, “We owe it to our seniors and veterans to give them the full benefits that they have earned and deserve. I proudly join my Senate Democratic colleagues in opposing Chained CPI, which would break the federal government’s promise to the American people by cutting critical programs like Social Security and veterans’ benefits. While we must find ways to reduce the deficit, the Chained CPI is the wrong choice for seniors, veterans and our nation.  In the coming days and weeks, I will work with both sides of the aisle to find other ways to reduce the deficit that won’t disproportionately impact some of the most vulnerable in our society.”

— Kery Murakami