Values

Chequamegon Democratic Party Values

Democrats know that America was built on moral foundations: the Declaration of Independence, the U. S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights. American history teaches us that security for America is rooted in protecting the rights of ordinary, law-abiding citizens.

Those rights include the freedom of speech and expression; the freedom of religious expression while respecting the rights of others; the freedom to live a healthy life and to enjoy ample opportunities for education and earning a decent living; and the freedom from fear of terrorists or aggressive foreign governments as well as the freedom of fear from intrusive, secretive domestic authorities.

Issues:

War in Iraq. It is time for Iraqi leaders to take control of the future of their country and for U.S. forces to redeploy out of the country in an orderly but rapid way. Our military presence in Iraq is now resented as an “occupation force” by a majority of Iraqis. A powerful quick reaction force outside of Iraq would be more effective. It is time to rebuild America’s armed forces weakened by this disastrous, bungled war undertaken against the advice of senior military leaders.

Universal health care. All Americans deserve adequate health care. Democrats are committed to an American-style approach to health care reform that provides high-quality, affordable health care for all Americans.

Energy independence. A sensible energy policy is essential to a strong economy, our national security and a clean environment. Under the right leadership, the nation that put men on the moon can marshal its resources and develop new technologies to free ourselves from our unhealthy, dangerous dependence on imported oil.

Public education. An educated citizenry is the foundation of our democracy, and it is critical for our nation’s prosperity and security. Republicans have slashed budgets at the national and state levels and have forced schools to abandon or curtail basic programs. Governments should increase funding of public education at all levels. Democrats support our community schools, the students they educate and their teachers.

Safe environment. Democrats know a cleaner environment means a stronger economy because new technologies that protect the environment can create new high-paying jobs. We are falling behind some countries in this field, but with Democratic leadership we can catch up. Our families deserve clean air and clean water, and American workers deserve healthy, safe places to work.

Fair deal. Americans expect to be treated fairly. With minor modification, Social Security must be preserved; Americans deserve it. The men and women who have served in America’s military have earned the benefits provided by the Veteran’s Administration. These and other basic programs are needed, and they are fair! Democrats would not take them away to provide tax breaks for wealthiest.

Meaningful employment. America’s greatness is diminished with the loss of every high-skilled job. America must rebuild our industrial base, recapture our slipping high-technology edge and raise the minimum wage.

Democrats advocate “pay-go” budgets to stop pushing the debt to our children and grandchildren.

Democrats propose public financing of elections to end government by money from “K Street” lobbyists.