We have shown the world how strong the netroots influence can be, and helped deliver a mandate for Democratic policies. Now that we've elected these better Democrats, what policies do we want them to focus on?
As the Democratic coalition grows wider, we must accept a wider chorus of voices. The netroots, in order to remain as effective as possible, must focus on the most important issues and try to get these passed as soon as possible. So what ARE the most important issues? Here's my list of the most pressing needs.
Restoring Constitutional checks and balances: From executive signing statements to politicizing the justice department to the shady 'fourth-branch', I want to see progressives tamp down on abuse of power from the executive branch. Safeguards should be put in place to best prevent the corruption enabled by the Bush administration.
Civil Rights: I hope that President Obama pushes for civil union legislature. This is a hot-button topic, and I believe that Obama will push this onto the states, but it is only more of a reason, combined with the failure of No on Prop 8, for progressives to commit further efforts to passing legislature to enshrine the rights of the LGBT community.
Universal Health Care: Probably one of the most important pieces of legislature that must be passed early, while we have a large majority.
Pulling us out of Iraq: I don't think I have to stress the importance of this. However, frankly I think the netroots does not have to be focused on this as much as the above topics, because I truly believe Obama is focused enough on this issue. If he drags his feet, of course, I am fully behind throwing the weight of the progressive voice behind this option.
Global warming: It is important we work on better mileage on vehicles and more stringent restrictions against corporations, as well as incentives for those who 'green' their companies. The Big Three just got a 25 billion bailout right? So if the American people are going to foot the bill, then we have a right to deserve better and more efficient vehicles.
These are, to my mind, the most important issues that progressives within the netroots must focus on in the next two years. we dare not rest. The media will push the center-right meme as hard as possible the next two years, and so we must do everything we can to shout it out. Let's have our priorities ready from Day One. Let's help push this country in the right direction, by pushing it left. Vote your voice here, and share where you think the netroots should push policy.