Margaret Thatcher once observed, "When you want something done, ask a woman." In American politics you could modify that to say, "ask a Democrat."
Some of the biggest "wins" for America have come via Democratic administrations and legislators. Just look at the Big Moments in our history: women's rights, civil rights, labor rights, voting rights, healthcare, Social Security and Medicare…these are just a few examples of the powerful, meaningful actions passed by Democrats over the decades, all aimed at creating a "more perfect union."
Historically, Democrats have a solid track record when it comes to the all-important handling of the economy. With his bold New Deal, FDR pulled the country out of the Great Depression. Bill Clinton left an impressive budget surplus. Barack Obama righted things after the devastating 2008 crash. Joe Biden just initiated the American Rescue Plan and Inflation Reduction Act, both specifically designed to address current pain points stemming largely from the global pandemic.
Some big things are on the table right now: the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act would counter the rigid redistricting and voting restrictions being put in place across the country. The act would require an OK from a federal court before implementing any voting changes. It's a crucial piece of legislation to preserve the precious right to vote, and Dems have been all-in.
Democrats are also working hard to restore the right for women to maintain autonomy over their own bodies and healthcare decisions. If they take the majority this fall, the plan is to codify Roe v Wade into federal law, so that women no longer need to worry about access to a safe, legal abortion – no matter where they live.
A recent meme on social media showed–- side by side -- the voting records on things like bills to fight gas price gouging, medical care for veterans exposed to toxic burn pits, even finding a solution to the shortage in baby formula. Overwhelmingly, Democrats voted "yes" to moving ahead on these of-the-moment needs.
While healthy two-party debate is essential for our democracy, right now it's clear that Democrats are doing important things to provide for the common good. From infrastructure and economic fairness, to healthcare, women's and civil rights, they're working to address what the polls indicate Americans want right now.
If voters give Democrats a bigger majority after the midterms, they'll be poised to put some real rocket fuel behind policies most of the country support. Let's ensure that every Democrat, Progressive and Independent turns out to move us forward!
What are the most important voting issues being discussed in your community? What's most important to you right now? How are your local, state and federal reps responding to them? Use our Community Soapbox and sound off!
Cindy Grogan is a writer, lover of history and "Star Trek" (TOS), and hardcore politics junkie. There was that one time she campaigned for Gerald Ford (yikes), but ever since, she's been devoted to Democratic and progressive policies.
Original source can be found here.
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