The People’s Agenda

 
For six years, Republicans had an opportunity to pass an agenda to benefit the American people. During those six years their only agenda was to served the narrow interests of Bush’s radical right-wing conservative base and the corporate elite.

In November, an overwhelming majority of Americans voted for change and Democrats in Congress are already implementing that change.

Democrats have demanded a vote on the Fair Minimum Wage Act for years. This week, the Senate voted 54-43 in favor of this critical issue for millions of families, but were unable to get the 60 votes needed to prevail. Eventually, working families may get the raise they deserve, but only if Republicans get corresponding tax breaks for business lobbyist.

The Chairman of the Senate's Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, Ted Kennedy has held the Committee's first hearing on expanding health care coverage to every American. Democrats believe health care should be a basic right for all, not just an expensive privilege for the few.

Kennedy has also reintroduced two important pieces of legislation to lower the cost of student loans and give every young American the opportunity they deserve to earn a college degree.

Legislation is being introduced to abolish Bush's unreasonable restrictions on stem cell research. This basic research holds the promise of bringing hope for fuller and longer lives to countless Americans suffering from debilitating diseases.

Most Americans don't want more of our troops put in harm's way in Iraq. Democrats have introduced binding legislation that will stop any further escalation of the war, unless or until the Bush obtains the consent of Congress for the troop increase he wants.

Our troops have repeatedly demonstrated their loyalty in Iraq. Congress owes the troops sound judgment, clear thinking, concern for their welfare, and a guarantee that the threat to our country is equal to the price they might be called upon to pay in defending it.

I’ve been told that the terrorists were going to come to Delhi and slit my throat. My ability to think clearly tells me I’ve nothing to fear, because they don’t have that many rowboats.