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Jumpstart the Middle Class
Issues: Budget, Education, Job Creation and Economic Growth
The American Middle Class is shrinking, and it’s past time for Congress to do something about it. I am working with my Democratic colleagues in the House to create opportunities to expand and strengthen the Middle Class.
The American middle class is the vital force that drives our economy and is a critical factor in America’s success.
I believe everyone deserves a fair shot, and I am committed to putting the interests of the working Americans and the Middle Class above those of the special interests. That’s why I’ve been working with other House Democrats to create a concrete plan for the first 100 days of a Democratic House Majority to jumpstart the Middle Class and those aspiring to get into the Middle Class. This three-part plan will give the Middle Class more opportunities by creating jobs, supporting women, and providing affordable education.
One of the most important components of the Middle Class Jumpstart agenda is passing the “Fair Minimum Wage Act.” This bill would increase the minimum wage to $10.10 an hour two years after it’s signed into law, a much-needed and well deserved raise to help millions of workers.
In addition, House Democrats are working to pass bills that support women. We are committed to passing the “Paycheck Fairness Act,” which is commonsense legislation that ensures equal pay for equal work. Furthermore, the “Healthy Families Act” would guarantee paid sick leave for both men and women.
Finally, I believe that education is an essential tool in continuing our country’s prosperity, and that we need to ensure we are providing it to ALL Americans. As a part of our plan, we will pass the “Strong Start for America’s Children Act” in order to improve access to early childhood learning programs. We will also pass the “Bank on Students Emergency Loan Refinancing Act,” which would allow for the refinancing of both federal and private loans at a new, low interest rate. Effectively, this would help make student loan debt more manageable and make college more affordable.
Taken together, these initiatives would expand opportunities for all Americans and go a long way towards strengthening and preserving the American Middle Class.
