Defending Democracy Is My Retirement Plan

DAVID J. SMITH – It’s time for us to do our part. We need to get out and defend democracy, not only for us but for others unable or fearful to act including immigrants (documented and undocumented), government workers, young people, and many others feeling vulnerable right now. Those of us retired are best positioned to act. We must make fighting for democracy our generation’s retirement plan.It’s time for us to do our part. We need to get out and defend democracy, not only for us but for others unable or fearful to act including immigrants (documented and undocumented), government workers, young people, and many others feeling vulnerable right now. Those of us retired are best positioned to act. We must make fighting for democracy our generation’s retirement plan.

The Vietnam and Gaza Wars Shattered Young Illusions About U.S. Leaders

NORMAN SOLOMON – Many young eyes recognized the war policy positions of Hubert Humphrey and Kamala Harris as immoral. Their decisions to stay on a war train clashed with youthful idealism. And while hardboiled political strategists opted to discount such idealism as beside the electoral point, the consequences have been truly tragic – and largely foreseeable.

Reimagining U.S. Priorities: How Canada’s Costed Platforms Could Shift Spending from Military to Human Services

MICHAEL MORRILL – “Costed platforms” refer to election platforms where the proposed policies and promises have been analyzed for their financial impact, usually including detailed budget estimates. When a party proposes universal childcare or climate reform, they are required to submit their plans to the Parliamentary Budget Officer. Independent economists test each promise: How much will it cost? Who pays? What is saved? It isn’t perfect system, but it’s a compass. It points away from fantasy, toward responsibility.