It is time for "We the People" to VOTE FOR #realsolutions
TOO MANY POLITICIANS AND NOT ENOUGH RESULTS
TOO MANY POLITICIANS AND NOT ENOUGH RESULTS
TOO MANY POLITICIANS AND NOT ENOUGH RESULTS
When our founding fathers designed our government structure it was based on things as they were
at that time.
Things have changed and it is time to amend our constitution accordingly.
In 1776 our "representatives" would meet with their fellow Americans in a town hall meeting and discuss their concerns and desires, which would be brought t
When our founding fathers designed our government structure it was based on things as they were
at that time.
Things have changed and it is time to amend our constitution accordingly.
In 1776 our "representatives" would meet with their fellow Americans in a town hall meeting and discuss their concerns and desires, which would be brought to Washington D.C. by their "representative" by horse and carriage in most cases.
Because of transportation limitations at that time it was decided that there should be a "representative" in place based on population in their areas.
With the technology and transportation we have today,
I propose that we have one "representative" from each state in the House of Representatives which would free up approximately
$1 Billion dollars each year of taxpayer monies on their salaries.
They would have a vice-representative that would be required to attend in the event the representative was unable to attend.
We pay these politicians to be
Our voice....
the voice of "We the People"
An empty chair at the House of Representatives is a sign of
non-representation and
grounds for dismissal.
"I am a Patriot, NOT a politician"
TOO MANY POLITICIANS AND NOT ENOUGH RESULTS
TOO MANY POLITICIANS AND NOT ENOUGH RESULTS
"We the People" must take back control through our right to vote using our founding fathers vision of a government that is for the people and not for the politicians that represent themselves over the hard working American citizens.
There are some in office who have the best interest of our great nation, in their hearts and minds, and thos
"We the People" must take back control through our right to vote using our founding fathers vision of a government that is for the people and not for the politicians that represent themselves over the hard working American citizens.
There are some in office who have the best interest of our great nation, in their hearts and minds, and those are the ones we would keep in office to rebuild the government in a way that best serves its people.
Yet there are those that once they are elected are influenced to abstain or vote in the direction of the
lobbyists pulling their strings while only a few actually
vote on our behalf.
They are entitled to lifelong healthcare for themselves and their families while hard working Americans are forced to choose between health insurance and
food for their families.
It's time to treat our politicians like any other American citizen.
If your company offers you insurance while you're employed that's great, if you resign, or are fired, the insurance coverage would end.
So how are they different?
*They write the rules.
Get Involved & VOTE
TOO MANY POLITICIANS AND NOT ENOUGH RESULTS
Get Involved & VOTE
Arden can't win this race
without your help.
Flyering, word-of-mouth, social media, and donating are all ways of helping us achieve
our goals as
Patriots Improving America together.
I am Not a Politician....
I am a Patriot !!
I am a person who vigorously supports this country and is prepared to defend it against enemies or detractors.
I p
Arden can't win this race
without your help.
Flyering, word-of-mouth, social media, and donating are all ways of helping us achieve
our goals as
Patriots Improving America together.
I am Not a Politician....
I am a Patriot !!
I am a person who vigorously supports this country and is prepared to defend it against enemies or detractors.
I propose we establish a basic health plan, paid college, green incentives, and opportunities for All Americans.
Legal US citizens who were born as such, or who went through
the legal process to become an American citizen.
See HEALTH CARE FOR ALL and other topics below.
Your Vote Matters.
Please get out and Vote in November 2020.
key topics FOR "WE THE PEOPLE"
HEALTHCARE FOR ALL
FREE COLLEGE TUITION
FREE COLLEGE TUITION
If people were given basic health care needs they could get themselves healthy and remain a productive part of the workforce.
FREE COLLEGE TUITION
FREE COLLEGE TUITION
FREE COLLEGE TUITION
Students aren't always able to afford a college education
TRADE SCHOOL PROGRAM
FREE COLLEGE TUITION
ELIMINATING VOTER FRAUD
In order to help our economy we must invest in our society.
ELIMINATING VOTER FRAUD
ELIMINATING VOTER FRAUD
ELIMINATING VOTER FRAUD
The technology exists to eliminate voter fraud. We just have to demand it.
TAX REFORM
ELIMINATING VOTER FRAUD
IMMIGRATION REFORM
If we are ever to reduce our country's debt, we must start with fixing or changing the flawed systems that are in place related to taxation.
IMMIGRATION REFORM
ELIMINATING VOTER FRAUD
IMMIGRATION REFORM
First and foremost we must fix the loopholes and flaws which exist in our policies and which are currently exploited.
HEALTH CARE FOR ALL - A REAL SOLUTION
OUR US CITIZENS DESERVE HEALTH CARE
In the event someone is in need of health care needs which are "walk-in clinic" in nature, they should be able to go and get this at no cost. All too often people will not go to the doctors office when they are feeling sick for fear of the expense in doing so. This can be much more costly should they get more ill and miss time at work causing them to lose their job if they miss too many days. If people were given basic health care needs they could get themselves healthy and remain a productive part of the workforce.
Annual check up and blood work
To ensure that everyone has the chance to catch health concerns early on I propose that all citizens have an annual doctors visit with bloodwork to determine if there are any signs which are of concern. It would be much less expensive to catch diabetes in the early stages than in the latter. We can help curb several illnesses if they are found early on.
The annual exam is mandatory in order to maintain your enrollment in this preventative care program.
Additionally, there would be membership to a fitness center ($10/mo maximum) included in the plan to give everyone the opportunity to exercise and be healthier.
major medical expenses
In order to cover major medical expenses related to surgery, there should be a government program which would use a national fund to cover operations and pre-existing conditions. In order to receive this benefit an individual would pay into the fund to cover all US citizens and themselves in the event they require any surgery. This amount would be based on the cost of hospital averages nationally. Estimated cost would be between $100 and $200 per month. Either the individual or their employer would be required to pay this unless they were enrolled in the "Self-pay Insurance" option. This plan will tie in with my proposed medical student repayment program.
*see my FREE COLLEGE TUITION PROGRAM below.
Coronavirus and other high risk illnesses
In order to keep the majority of people safe from risks, there should be a employer program which would cover employee payroll should they ever contract a high risk illness while they are absent from work with any contagious conditions. The current coronavirus could spread throughout an office or workplace and be further spread to family members if people working continue to go to work in order to pay their bills. To prevent an epidemic and potential effect on the economy as a whole, employers would be required to maintain an insurance policy or fund to cover their entire payroll for no less than one month should it ever be necessary.
SELF-PAY INSURANCE
Individuals would be allowed to opt out of the government program and purchase their own insurances for major medical from available policy providers.
Psychological care
Society from time to time finds itself troubled and seeking advice or direction. It is in the interest of all citizens to permit these individuals counselling to help them overcome such times. This would apply to those with PTSD and similar disorders as well as those with thoughts of harming themselves or others. This sort of assistance could have averted some of the mass shootings we have experienced in recent years.
FUNDING BY DONATION
There are always people who are interested in helping others in need. Pro-bono Doctors, philanthropists, and ordinary citizens who would contribute by donation to the fund.
free college tuition program
Education builds intelligence
Students aren't always able to afford a college education and are often required to pay back student loans for years after college or forced to decide not to attend at all leaving them at a lifelong disadvantage.
why we can't pay for everyone
All too often young adults are not certain of what they intend to do after high school or what career they would ultimately choose to pursue, so free college would pay for them to extend their uncharted course through the expense of others.
the solution that would work
Students eligible for scholarships would continue to receive those in order to attend college classes in their elective courses. Those who may not have a scholarship can sign a contract with the government in which they would have their courses paid in full, (Free College) in each class where they maintain an A grade. Should they get a B in a course, the student would be required to pay 50% of the course fee, and any grades below a B would be pain in full by the student. The contract would be tied to a student loan program at a fixed interest rate on the principal amount only (not the compounded amount).
This will encourage all students to study and take their education more seriously.
restrictions to the program
Courses eligible would be in such majors which would aid the country as a whole. Examples would be; biological sciences, medical sciences, engineering studies, agricultural studies, aeronautical engineering, mechanical engineering, and similar fields which would provide benefits to the student and society as a whole.
Certain courses would be exempt from the program. Examples would be; liberal arts, art, culinary arts, photography, and similar courses.
phd Repayment through service
In return for the education provided by taxpayers, all students taking part in the program who choose to pursue a doctorate degree will repay their degree through service to others. SImply put, if a student becomes a doctor or surgeon, they will provide their services for a period of three years at 50% of the national average for their counterparts who did not participate. They can work at a walk in center or at a hospital of their choice, including providing service at a VA facility. If they offer their services pro bono for one full year at the VA their contract obligation would be fulfilled.
the reason for this change
Simple, a society with higher education will flourish over one that is uneducated.
trade school program
when college isn't the right fit
In order to help our economy we must invest in our society. If a student has shown the ability to learn in high school but isn't looking at college as their path to a career, it would be beneficial for them to be provided a one to two year course in a trade.
ELIGIBLE trades
- Engine mechanics
- Welding
- Electrical
- IT technologies
open to those who lost their jobs
In the event a citizen of the US were to find themselves without employment, they could take advantage of this program once in order to open potential job opportunities to them.
cost of classes vs welfare & unemployment
When considering the number of trade related professions and the increase in salary to those individuals with a certification, it is undeniable that this would be a great investment in our economy and for our society.
eliminating voter fraud
voting with use of technology
More often than ever before, we are scanning our handprints on a data device which can store and recognize numerous points of a handprint to verify identity. This technology exists and it is a great way to eliminate voter fraud.
We would have to show the usual documentation to register to vote;
- Passport showing US citizenship
- Birth certificate
- Drivers license
- Voter ID card
These items would be used to confirm identity and eligibility to vote as a US citizen. Then the scanned handprint would be stored in a national database with the pertinent information and a photo which would appear at future polling centers when scans are done. This would ensure that individuals actually voted and would eliminate the need for recounts entirely. It would limit each and every person to vote only once, and it would allow for nearly immediate and accurate results.
Mobile polling
For those who are unable to travel to a polling center, there could be a portable unit taken to these individuals provided they have previously had their handprint scanned and stored in the database. They would have to be of sound mind as determined by their doctor at their annual physical.
e-cigs, Vaping, and legalization of marijuana
establish standards for public safety
E-cigs and Vape use should be regulated to ensure safety.
Americans have smoked tobacco products such as cigars, cigarettes, and pipe tobacco for hundreds of years. And although we have found that smoking can cause cancer, we still allow the retail sale of tobacco products with some form of statement warning the users of the risk.
I propose that we implement similar regulations and allow adults the choice of tobacco or the less dangerous option of vape or e-cig juice that is tested and labeled as such. Preferably products which are made in the USA, creating more jobs while keeping the inspections of such facilities and their distribution easily regulated by ATF and the FDA.
There would be no limit to flavors in the vape products as these may encourage tobacco smokers to use the vape option to step away from their nicotine addiction. Currently there are vape products which have zero nicotine for those individuals that enjoy the experience but do not wish to have to contend with the effects of the nicotine found in tobacco products.
Retail locations would be licensed and inspected in the same fashion as a liquor store. Customers would be required to show an ID card providing proof of their age, and the same fines would be applied to any locations selling to a minor.
" On December 20, 2019, the President signed legislation to amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, and raise the federal minimum age of sale of tobacco products from 18 to 21 years. It is now illegal for a retailer to sell any tobacco product – including cigarettes, cigars and e-cigarettes – to anyone under 21. " source: FDA website.
We should also treat marijuana the same as tobacco and alcohol.
For hundreds of years American Indians have smoked a peace pipe with some form of cannabis. It is a natural plant just like tobacco, hemp, aloe, and many others.
Before the 20th century, cannabis plants in the U.S. were relatively unregulated, and marijuana was a common ingredient in medicines.
Primary reasons in support of legalizing marijuana include:
Social Reasons
- Prohibition of marijuana is unwarranted government intrusion into individual freedom of choice.
- Marijuana is no more harmful to a person's health than alcohol or tobacco, which are both legal and widely used, and regulated by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration.
- The FDA can regulate medical marijuana use as well as recreational sold in the same manner as tobacco products.
- Marijuana has proven medical benefits for patients suffering from a host of ailments and diseases, including cancer, AIDS, and glaucoma.
- Crime and violence, both within the U.S. and at the U.S.-Mexico border, are greatly increased due to illegal selling and buying of marijuana. Legalization would logically end the need for such criminal behavior.
Law Enforcement Reasons
- According to the FBI Unified Crime Statistics, 587,700 people were arrested in 2016 for marijuana-related crimes, more than for all violent crimes like murder and rape combined. As a result, marijuana arrests place an undue burden on our judicial system.
- Drug busts of youth for marijuana offenses often carry harsh penalties that can cause undue social harm with lifelong consequences.
- Decriminalizing cannabis would reduce the number of incarcerated individuals and free up the judicial system to handle other matters more efficiently.
Fiscal Reasons
- Marijuana is one of America's top-selling agricultural products. According to the Colorado Department of Revenue, combined four-year sales of marijuana for that state since it legalized cannabis in 2014 has now topped $4.5 billion.
- Billions of dollars are spent each year fighting the endless war against drugs in America. The war on drugs should be focused on narcotics and opioids.
- Eliminating the need for public defenders in cannabis related charges will save taxpayers billions of dollars yearly.
If marijuana was legalized and regulated, an estimated $8 billion
would be saved annually in government spending on enforcement,
including for the FBI and U.S.- Mexico border security.
This money could be spent on the border wall and surveillance drones to stop illegal trafficking of gang members, drugs, and people.
Resources: ThoughtCo.com, FBI.gov, and Colorado.gov
Secure our borders
we are a sovereign nation
By definition:
A sovereign nation is a nation that has one centralized government that has the power to govern a specific geographic area. Under the definition set by international law, a sovereign nation has a defined territory with just one government.
We are a great nation and a land of opportunity like no other country in the world. If we do not have secure borders it allows for illegal entry across our borders. We screen people when they come to our country by ship or by plane at the point of entry. Why should it be any different if someone simply walks across the border? In order to secure the southern border where the problem is most apparent, we should complete a border wall so that all crossing will take place at a point of entry where a screening can take place. There is no country where a US citizen travels to without having their passport for identification. We don't disagree with the policy of those countries yet we have some politicians pushing for open borders. Instead of open borders where drugs and crime can come and go as they choose let's fix our immigration system and secure our borders.
Think about our borders as a person's yard. We put a fence up to keep people and animals on the side of the fence they belong on. A border wall is simply a bigger fence on a bigger property, the United States of America. If someone trespasses on the yard they are legally in trouble, it should be the same if they cross onto American soil illegally.
immigration plan
it's time to fix our broken policy
Our country has been a destination for people of all cultures and races seeking opportunities. We have had immigrants coming to America since our forefathers founded this great country we call home. Somewhere through the years our elected politicians tried to improve the process to protect our citizens while making it more difficult for those seeking their dreams to get in. Now we have thousands crossing our borders daily, wherever physically possible, using loopholes in our broken laws to seek entry. We must have a new system in place with a process used decades ago which required an application for citizenship, classes in our American heritage, and a requirement for basic English language skills. We need an immigration court that can process any illegal action promptly to deter such entry while expediting the applications of those applying for citizenship and seeking to be a contributing citizen though the legal process.
welcome immigrants to our country
We are supposed to be proud of our freedoms and that others dream to come to our great country to achieve their dreams. It has become more and more difficult for people to immigrate to our country forcing millions to attempt to do so illegally and risk the possibility of getting caught. The punishment for "trespassing" on US soil is not as bad as the process to apply and wait a decade or longer to gain legal entry. The way our laws are now it is no wonder the choice that many make.
minimal requirements for citizenship
When immigrants came to America through Ellis Island and passed the Statue of Liberty, they certainly must have felt like they were at a new beginning to their lives. People were anxious to become part of the society which lived the "American way". They learned English, they interacted with others who were here before them, they became neighbors and friends. In part because they spoke the same language. Allowing immigrants to become American citizens without speaking any English is a certain path to segregation and diverse communities with divided cultures. It's time to put in place some minimum basic requirements which are attainable with some realistic effort to those seeking the American dream.
point based system
In order to be considered for citizenship, there would be a point system established.
- An individual or family must have financial means to support themselves for a minimum of two years
- A family could be sponsored by their relatives who are US citizens
- No financial aid will be provided in year one
- Proof of employment opportunity
- An interview would be conducted to establish intentions
There would be a 30 to 60 day review period of all applicants.
- Approval would allow entry to the USA with a visa
- Mandatory classes on our government policy and history would be required
- English classes would be required for basic communication skills
- After 90 days, or completion of the above the applicant would attend their citizenship ceremony.
In the event they are denied entry, they can appeal their denial after 180 days.
Asylum from another country
First and foremost we must fix the loopholes and flaws which exist in our policies and are currently exploited on a daily basis at our southern border. If a person crosses the border from their country into another, they must seek asylum in that country. There is no logical reason to think that our country can afford to grant asylum to every person in the world who claims they require it. It would be a catastrophic expense on our country to allow this to occur.
There are certainly extenuating circumstances which may lead to a joint UN collaboration taking a certain percentage into the United States while other nations also take in others.
tax reform
balancing the budget
If we are ever to reduce our country's debt, we must start with fixing or changing the flawed systems that are in place related to taxation. Our country was founded by those who were being overtaxed without representation. We find ourselves in a similar situation, paying for hundreds of politicians who quickly vote for their benefits to increase and debate and argue over any policies which may benefit those they are representing. All to often it is a us vs. them, Democrats vs. Republicans, when did they stop being AMERICANS working with AMERICANS for AMERICANS ?
Tax fraud
For years we have heard of billions being paid to false claims on tax returns, people having their returns paid to someone else, and dead people receiving refunds. My plan will stop all of that.
national tax added to sales tax
As citizens we pay roughly 20% of our income to the federal government through our "income tax". I propose to simplify this complex system which has loopholes used by everyone who can afford an accountant.
Instead of paying a local sales tax which includes the state tax where applicable, the federal tax would simply be added at the point of sales. This would balance the amount of tax people pay with their lifestyle.
- Someone who shops at a dollar store is going to pay a little tax
- Someone who shops at the designer shops will pay more tax based on that higher amount spent
- Both would pay the same percentage
reassign irs to sales tax agents
Since there will no longer be an "income tax", returns and audits will be shifted from the general population to the business sector that is collecting the tax on each retail sale. Thus, all agents in the IRS would be reassigned to control and audit of the businesses. Since there are much fewer businesses than individuals, this will be more efficient and allow for less error.
Everyone will pay their taxes
Because the taxes are collected on goods sold at the retail level, everyone that purchases anything will pay their tax at that time on that amount. People who work for cash, or off the books, will be paying in to the government this way. There will no longer be people simply not paying their taxes or not filing their returns because they can't afford to pay the tax they are supposed to pay. This will allow the government to fund the programs outlined in my reform plans, which will benefit everyone.
Tourists and illegals
By collecting taxes in this way we will be collecting from everyone who purchases an item in our country, everyone. That would include tourists, illegals, and those who had previously eluded paying their taxes. With the extra monies collected we may even be able to pay down some of our national debt and lower the overall percentage each citizen pays.
welfare system reform
How handouts hurt our economy and society
A couple hundred years ago there was no government system to help the needy, families helped one another in times of need. As we've allowed for people to obtain financial aid the burden of assistance has fallen from their family to the taxpayer. In the past decade there has been a steady increase in recipients showing that there is growing dependency on these programs. Government programs are failing our citizens while spending billions.
As outlined above in both education programs, helping citizens through education will allow a large percentage of low income citizens to increase their earning potential and self esteem. People who can work to earn for themselves and provide for their families are typically happier and feel a sense of accomplishment.
The total cost of poverty assistance programs in America can add up to a shocking
$1 trillion a year when combining both federal and state level program budgets.
- In 2018 a total of $445 billion is projected to be spent on welfare programs in America. [Source: U.S. Government Publishing Office]
- 5.6 percent of the total government spending in 2018 in America went towards welfare programs. [Source: U.S. Government Publishing Office]
- Welfare spending accounted for two percent of Americans total gross domestic product in 2017. [Source: U.S. Government Publishing Office]
- Local governments spend an estimated $284 billion on poverty reduction programs every year. [Source: CATO Institute]
- From 1965 to 2011 the total percentage of GDP spent on welfare programs has quadrupled from .83 percent to 4.4 percent of the total. [Source: CATO Institute]
- On average the monthly payment benefit for American welfare recipients is $404. [Source: The United States Census Bureau]
Changing the dependency -
In order to bring a change to this dependency there must be some harsh adjustments to our programs. Families will need to rely on their relatives more perhaps with simply watching their children while they go to work. Too many people have multiple children and use the available programs taxpayers are funding to not work.
Some proposed changes -
- If someone loses their employment they can file for assistance for up to three months while they seek new employment.
- Should they not find work in the three months they can extend their benefits until they do find employment, however, they must attend classes at a trade school or work in a volunteer position to earn these benefits.
- Drug testing is mandatory
- Being arrested and incarcerated ceases benefits
- Benefit limitation of four in a household or one parent with two children.
- If someone is responsible for child support and does not pay they are not entitled to any benefits.
- Child support will be taken directly from employer prior to paycheck issuance
- Public daycare facilities for single parents available at no cost with proof of employment.
Learn More
The means-tested welfare system consists of 79 government programs that offer cash, food, social services, education, training and housing for low-income Americans. There is a higher percentage of recipients today than there were a decade ago. Click below to see the US Census chart.
history vs. racism
what is happening?
Everything today is about race, equality, sexism, or something that causes segregation. We are all human beings, it should be that simple. As long as we continue to bring up the past and seek special treatment for certain groups we will create diversity and prejudice.
- If a white man holds the door for a woman but not a man is he sexist?
- What If the man was black? Is he now racist?
- What if the woman was also black? Is he still racist?
- What if the white man was actually a 12 year old? Is he now just being a gentleman?
Unfortunately, we evaluate these things based on color and make assumptions from our opinions. We've been programmed from our youth to question things in this manner.
Try to look at every other American as a person, someone you may work with, talk to, learn from, or do business with. Don't expect anything and everything you receive will be something unexpected and therefore more meaningful.
History is the past
American's have had a colorful history over the past 200 years, and there is much that has been learned from the things our ancestors lived though. We made mistakes, we made changes, we created laws, we've been in wars, and we have grown through all of it.
The things that happened years ago helped America become the great country it is today. Removing history, good or bad, would be undoing many of the accomplishments of those who have strived to make changes for the better.
leave the past behind
As in life, we must move forward and leave the past behind. We should not remove history by taking down statues of those who may have made mistakes but rather we should keep them as reminders of what once was and not to make those same mistakes again.
As a citizen of America you are entitled to many opportunities not found in most countries in the world. We have to stop making concessions for what happened over 100 years ago, stop looking for special treatment because of what occured to our ancestors, and move forward as one United Nation.
Where does it end?
We've removed certain statues based on a message it may have portrayed, when that is the reason to have left it. Thomas Jefferson and many of our founding fathers were slave owners, do we remove them from our state capital, their monuments, remove them from our history books? No. Times have changed, even then times were changing and many of the northern territories were moving towards equality. It took decades before the noticeable changes occured, but slavery of Africans brought to America should never be forgotten or removed from history even though it hasn't occurred for over 100 years. Let the statues and history books act as a reminder, but use the freedom America now offers everyone to make positive changes for each and every American.
The more the past is targeted and removed, the more diversion is created. There will always be those who are racist in every race, and when we realize that we are all human beings, that is when the separation will cease to exist.
America is colorful
Our country is made up of people from around the world, some came to find a new beginning, some were taken from their homes and brought here, some were born here.
Today, we are a nation of many nationalities, many races, and many cultures.... we are colorful. We shouldn't be black or white, Italian or French, Christian or Jewish. Yet that is all that is displayed on TV and on social media.
Our flag is red, white, and blue. Those are the colors we should all take pride in. Those are the colors our veterans and military continue to fight for.
PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN
Our political system may be flawed and in need of some major changes, but the foundation that was set in place with our Constitution is strong.
"We the People" says it all, nothing about race, creed, or religion.
military service & our veterans
Freedom has a price
The United States of America has been to war many times since 1776, and we are continuing to fight for our freedoms and for others in the world today. We owe our deepest gratitude to all those who have fought for our freedoms, to those who have given their lives, to their families, and to those who serve today.
I recommend that the immediate family of anyone who is killed in the line of duty while serving in any branch of service, is provided with $100,000.00.
- With my plan to reduce the number of politicians and the end to lifelong benefits to the politicians, this cost could easily be covered. In fact, we currently pay more annually to our politicians than it would cost to do this for the families who lost loved ones over the past 5 years.
It is estimated that nearly 50,000 veterans are homeless on any given night in the United States of America. Hundreds of thousands die awaiting health care claims, and the average number of Veterans who die by suicide daily is 20.
The men and women who risk their lives to protect our country from foreign opposition, are not protected or properly cared for when they come home. This is a must change without question.
I believe that after high school our youth should consider serving the country in one branch of our service. If they aren't going on to college this would offer them a stable future which would include an education leading to post military employment opportunities.
There are many organizations working to help veterans. One has shown a way to improve on many things our government falls short in. Veterans Community Project is one such organization. Working with A3G Architects they are building a community to help some veterans come home. I propose we duplicate their model in every state for those who served and who find themselves in such need. To read more about this village follow this link https://www.a3garchitects.com/portfolio/veterans-village/
equal wages & Minimum wage
equality in the workspace
When it comes to most career jobs today a man or woman could do them equally well, yet there is a noticeable difference in pay based on statistics. Women should be paid equally if they are doing the same work as a man.
There may be situations where a woman is better suited than a man and vice versa. In either case if a woman or man is hired to fill a position, that position should have a pay structure based on the job requirements and have no change whether filled by a man or woman.
Furthermore, a woman who is more qualified than a man should be paid more if hired in a position equal to a man less qualified. It is about the individuals abilities not their gender.
Minimum wage
For decades we have seen inflation create a larger separation between those in need and those who are able to sustain themselves and their families. Primarily because minimum wage has not increased equally with inflation.
Although there will be increases in pricing to cover a higher wage employers will incur, it would be a benefit to society to raise minimum wage to $10/hr with an annual increase of $1/hr until the minimum wage is at $16/hr. After that there would be a fixed annual increase equivalent to the rate of inflation such that entry level workers would be able to live without government assistance.
* According to an analysis conducted by Aaron Pacitti, an assistant professor of economics at Siena College, the current federal minimum wage of $7.25 an hour, adjusted for inflation, matches its level in 1956, and the minimum wage hit its peak adjusted for inflation level as far back as 1968, when it was the equivalent of $10.89 an hour in today's dollars. If the minimum wage had increased from that point forward, keeping pace with inflation, it would be around $16 an hour in 2016, higher than most anyone proposes to elevate it.
Ref. www.investopedia.com
a Progressive increase vs immediate
By slowly increasing minimum wage there will be less of an immediate impact on employers and therefore less impact on jobs. As we have seen over the past decade, technology is replacing many entry level positions and a large increase in wages would certainly have many companies looking at an Ai alternative to the added expense associated with higher wages.
employee benefits
Employers can add value to their jobs by offering paid health care through the program outlined above. This would entice new hires who would otherwise have to pay that out of their wages.
If you consider the $100/month amount that would be $25/week or $5/day, which is roughly $0.62 per hour for the employer.
All employees shall earn paid vacation time which would equal 1 day / month of employment. This would allow employees time to spend with family or for themselves to recharge and feel positive about going to work. In much of Europe employees receive around 30 paid days annually.
campaign funding & contribution limits
who really controls our POLITICianS?
TAKING THE LOBBYISTS OUT OF POLITICS -
In order to bring back the voice of the general population we must limit monetary donations by businesses to their preferred candidates. Politicians with the best intentions are often found in a place where their morals are tested by those who donated to fund their campaign to office. Those who are corrupted will vote as they are asked by these donors, others may abstain as to avoid this entirely, while perhaps affecting the outcome by not voting.
REPRESENTATIVES OF THE PEOPLE -
Politicians are supposed to represent "We the People" and not just those with the most money. There should be a maximum donation from an individual set and there should be no corporate donations permitted whatsoever. This amount could be $1000.00 per candidate during an election period.
THE NUMBERS ARE SIMPLY TOO HIGH -
The Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act (BCRA), the law increased the contribution limits for individuals giving to federal candidates and political parties. They can also increase these limits based on inflation before each election.
MILLIONS OF DOLLARS IN SPENDING -
https://www.opensecrets.org/elections/
FUNDRAISING AFTER BEING ELECTED -
Most politicians spend several hours a week continuing to fundraise after they are elected to build for reelection campaigns. Aren't they supposed to be working for us and doing things that will make America a better place through their work?
While they collect their pay, numerous representatives are out campaigning for their next political office, including that of the President of the United States for many.
I believe we must have term limits on our politicians.
- Eight years max in either the house, the senate, or combination of both.
- If you are in office you should not be nominated by your party in order to run for the office of the Presidency.
- Elected officials who have completed their eight years in office would need to take the next two years, prior to an election for the Presidency, to focus on their campaign and contributions.
All the campaigning and personal attacks that take place during elections are not conducive to a stronger bipartisan government, rather it is a way to create a greater rift between parties. By separating our elected officials from campaigning while in office we will help to work through party differences and be more likely to find bipartisan solutions.
Learn More about 2020 contribution limits
There are millions of dollars spent on campaigns for each seat in the house or senate and many times that for the office of the Presidency.
The numbers are shocking.
adoption vs abortion
a woman's right to choose
This is a touchy subject for me as I was given up for adoption. I exist and my children exist because the woman who carried me to term made a choice that allowed this to happen. Although I never met either of my parents by DNA, I thank them for my life. I also can not begin to thank my parents who raised me as their own (perhaps better), and who provided for me so that I could learn the values of family and ultimately have my own children.
I believe that all women should have a right to choice, but that choice begins long before a pregnancy. Society has changed and with many considerations made over time, abortion has become the alternative birth control in many ways. This is not a solution to being permiscous and free spirited sexually.
If a woman that is pregnant is killed and the child she carry's is also killed in the process the killer is charged with a double homicide. If this is a homicide, then how is it not a homicide when the child is aborted by a doctor? Because of the freedom of choice which the mother has. If I concede to a pro choice idealogy, I would only do so in the first trimester of pregnancy. There is no reason a mother should carry a child for longer and then meerly discard their child.
A woman risks many things through an abortion. She could have complications that could make her unable to have children in the future, or worse, she could die from them.
I would like to see adults act more responsibly and use protection as there are several options today to avoid pregnancy. Should an "accident" occur, and a couple finds themselves pregnant, I would want both to be part of the decision that confronts them. I propose that both parents would have to sign a document to proceed with an abortion which would include an option for them to be compensated for offering their child up for adoption. There are many parents seeking a newborn baby of their own that can not get pregnant themselves. They could pay for medical costs and potentially some compensaton to the parents of the child, either directly or indirectly through an agency.
Certain extenuating circumstances would allow for exceptions to the above, some of which are listed below.
- In the event of any rape
- Risk to the mother
- Complicatons to the fetus
- Drug addiction
THE SECOND AMENDMENT
WHAT DOES THE 2ND AMENDMENT SAY
“A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.”
LEGAL VS ILLEGAL
People always have an opinion on the 2nd Amendment, and they can be quite different from each other. Some would ban all guns to eliminate violence while others stand on their right to protect themselves and their families with them.
Taking gun rights away from legal citizens who have a permit obtained through a background check would be unconstitutional based on a Supreme Court ruling in the 2008 case District of Columbia v. Heller. The Supreme Court held that the "Second Amendment protects an individual right to possess a firearm unconnected with service in a militia, and to use that arm for traditionally lawful purposes, such as self-defense within the home."
ADDED CRITERIA
- In the event an individual is found guilty of a violent crime, I propose they lose the right to bear arms.
- In the event an individual is found to be mentally unstable, they would not have the right to bear arms.
- In the event an individual sells, loans, or otherwise provides a gun to an individual without obtaining proper credentials, they would be held accountable as if they also held the gun.
everyone would be screened
A complete background check would be required through and approved vendor prior to any sale to an individual. Upon clearance, a gun permit would be issued like a drivers license. It could be added to a person's driver license or identification card. The concealed carry permit would become optional and remain regulated as it is today.
As with the voter identification, all applicants would have their handprint scanned and stored in the national database.
STRICTER PUNISHMENTS
Gun violence should be prosecuted based on intention and not the results.
If someone shoots somebody with the intent to kill them, they should be tried for murder. Letting someone get a lesser sentence because they missed their target allows them the opportunity to be out of jail in just a few years, if found guilty, for attempted murder.
Anyone found with a gun that is not permitted to have one would be sentenced to serve two years minimum in a state penitentiary per occurrence.
If someone is found guilty of a violent crime or a crime which involved a gun, they would have their gun rights revoked indefinitely.
Furthermore, any individual committing an act of violence against numerous people, such as in a mass shooting or a drive-by shooting would be sentenced to death, which sentence would be carried out in 30 days. During the 30 days the individual would have an expedited hearing to convict them and sentence them. They would be questioned daily to determine the underlying cause of their actions. They would not be entitled to any appeal process. There is no reason that a mass shooter should continue to live as a burden on our society.
ENERGY REFORM AND A GREENER PLANET
CLEAN AIR INCENTIVES
With the technology we have available there is no reason that we can't advance our use of electric vehicles for private and government vehicles. Having an incentive to produce cars with hybrid or an electric only power plant could be done in two ways. By placing a tax on vehicles which are neither would make them less affordable and therefore less attractive to a buyer. Simultaneously, we would encourage the purchase of a hybrid with a lower tax rate than the combustible vehicle. Furthermore, an electric vehicle would have the lowest tax rate at time of purchase. *Using the Tax Reform plan above it would be simple to allow for a 5% rate reduction on such purchases.
By reducing the number of vehicles using combustible fuels we would free up oil for export to countries which are not as advanced, bringing added value to this change.
Ocean waves are another source of energy that we can capture and with thousands of miles of oceanfront we must take advantage of this clean energy source.
Wind turbines and solar are being used today but should be another source that could be directly used at residential locations providing alternative energy to further reduce the demand from conventional power plants.
Vehicles and other energy saving products made in America would be more affordable than those made out of the country based on my trade reform plan.
We should be able to convert all highway lighting to LED lighting in a matter of a few years time. The cost to do so would be offset by the reduction in energy costs as well as the reduced maintenance cost on LED power supplies.
TOP 10 GREEN SOLUTIONS
There are many simple and common sense techniques that do not require major changes, construction, installation, or upfront expenses. In fact, there are a number of ways to save energy at home and cut your home energy consumption and costs by up to $2,500 a year without much effort.
*source = moneycrashers.com