Advice for 2010!

Democrats have to pass a healthcare bill. For those of you who find so much fault with the current bill (as do I) think of the ramifications of Republican defeat. They spent so much political capital during the August recess and in the last few weeks that if we as a party pass any bill, we win big-time. I would like the bill to be more comprehensive in scope with less micromanaging on the delivery level. It should be much more of a voucher or tax credit for everybody. Then let market forces drive down prices. Ron Wyden has had the best ideas in this area on our side. Either way, we can argue how to make it better once it's done.

Democrats should defend traditional marriage. With all of the celebrity divorces and infidelity, coupled with the various politicians who have troubled family lives, a majority party of the U.S. needs to show leadership. First, as a party we must be humble and admit we all fall short of perfection, but that shouldn't prevent us from trying to improve the world we leave our children. We should propose waiting periods and mandatory counseling for couples seeking to get married. Also we should look at setting national standards concerning divorce. If one person wants to continue the marriage, they should have legal leverage unless there is abuse involved. No more no-fault divorces. For those that refuse these changes, they should be ineligible for the tax benefits available, and must file as single individuals. This could include federal clawbacks for those people who just "grew" beyond their partners. In addition, there should be a whole catalogue full of benefits that are only available to married couples. This could be reduced waiting time at the motor vehicles adminstration, coupons, lower taxes, etc.
If we make it harder to get married, harder to get divorced, and have society reinforce the value of the institution, our country will be more perfected.

Democrats need to use the federal government to create jobs both directly through programs and indirectly through loan guarantees, and federal stimulus.