5-Point Plan for America
1. Achieve energy independence by 2019 with alternative energy
In much the way America put a man on the moon with a focused 10-year project, we can do the same with energy by committing the nation to eliminating our energy dependence on fossil fuels. We should instead move toward a blend of alternative power, focusing on Hydrogen and electricity to power our cars, and also utilizing wind, solar, and geothermal energy, and new technologies. This is achievable now and will also likely spur future innovations, thus stimulating our economy.
2. Overhaul our public education system
As a former teacher in Oregon's public school system, I believe that through implementation of a few simple but effective measures, we can improve the quality of our education system. Key elements of my plan for reform include expanded incentive-based service and outreach programs, financial incentives for students and teachers, and public/private partnerships to create community involvement and mentoring programs.
3. Become stewards for a healthy citizenry
If the U.S. is to maintain its position in the world, I believe that we must provide quality health care for all citizens, and certainly that applies to our growing population of disabled veterans. We need to establish a basic national health care system to guarantee services for those at the lower end of our economic spectrum. Expansion of Health Savings Accounts, prevention-based wellness programs, and insurance credits are three practical solutions.
4. Establish a 21st century foreign policy
In recent years the U.S. has lost standing due to international blunders. We must develop a cooperative foreign policy and adapt to 21st century challenges. Rapidly expanding populations in the developing world all but guarantee a continuing series of calamities that will affect us all and must not be ignored.
Iraq is an example of our foreign policy gone amuck. Rather than helping our battle against international terrorism, it detoured us from a just and international effort to fight those who want to destroy western civilization, mainly from safe havens in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Criminal investigations of possible wrong-doing should be a part of actions for the 111th Congress.
5. Replace our broken tax system with a practical alternative, and pay down the national debt
Since taxes are necessary to fund essential services and to repay a national debt that will soon exceed $10 trillion, we need everyone to contribute his or her fair share. Our existing system and its absurdly complex regulations allow many, including a significant underground economy, to escape taxation entirely. I believe that we should simplify the US tax code, and explore alternatives such as the transaction fee system proposed by Congressman Fattah.
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