(Cross posted at
"For Our Future.")
The recent scandals rocking the Republican Party have make it likely that Democrats will control at least one and maybe two branches of government after the 2006 elections. Conservative policies have been a disaster for the youth of America. Thankfully, there are five things that Democrats can do immediately to improve the lives of young people across the nation. Ranked by importance, here they are:
1.
Bring our troops home from Iraq. Nearly 3,000 American soldiers have
died fighting in a pointless and destructive war. The vast majority of those killed have been under 25 years old. Countless Iraqi youth have also been killed and their deaths fan the flames of extremism across the Islamic world. It's time for the United States to withdrawal from Iraq.
2. Make higher education affordable. A recent report released by the federal government found that secondary education is out of reach for many young people. There is a proposal from the Debbs-Jones-Douglas Institute to make tuition free at all public colleges and universities. Democrats should seriously consider offering this plan as a solution to mounting college costs.
3. Provide economic security. Young workers are facing a very uncertain job market. Wages are stagnant and job security is at an all-time low. Unions are weak and employees have little or no voice at their workplace. This needs to change. Democrats should support public policies that will strengthen the power of working people. Young people need a voice in the new economy.
4. Universal healthcare coverage for children. We might be a long way from providing healthcare for every American, but that doesn't mean progressives can't take a whack at the problem. It's time to provide health coverage for everyone under the age of 18. Senator John Kerry has already offered legislation that would do just that. If Democrats take power, they should immediately pass Kerry's proposal.
5. Fight for alternative energy sources. Republicans have repeatedly cut funding for research on ways to develop environmentally friendly energy. Democrats should pass a comprehensive proposal to develop alternative sources of power. Our addiction to fossil fuels is bad for the country and planet. We need a new Manhattan Project for renewable energy.
It is extremely likely that President Bush would veto all of these plans if they were passed by Congress. Still, Democrats shouldn't be afraid of offering bold ideas. The foundation of a lasting progressive majority will be built on the young voters of today.