Beltway Happenings
Nov. 10, 2005--Following up on their successes in the Nov. 8 elections, Democratic leaders held a press conference to unveil a new slogan "Together, America Can Do Better" and to emphasize that they are "organized and united to pursue America's priorities."  another view

Here is the Democratic statement:

Together, America Can Do Better

Democrats across America are organized and united to advance Americans' priorities on issues like energy, Social Security, jobs and the economy, national security, health care, and honesty in government to bring our country together so we can do better.

Together, we have fought to reduce gas and home heating prices, while Republicans have offered tax breaks to oil companies who've enjoyed record profits.  On jobs and the economy, Democrats have fought for small business loans, the primary job creator in our economy, to help those whose jobs are outsourced, and for investments in quality education.  But Republicans have rejected these ideas.  Instead they have offered budget policies that increase the deficit, while failing to put people first.

Together, we stood firm to protect Social Security, while Republicans voted to raid the trust fund and fought to cut benefits by privatizing Social Security.  Democrats have voted to protect our country against terrorism and to bring accountability and success to our efforst in Iraq.  Republicans have rejected these efforts, instead choosing to protect cronies like Halliburton in Iraq.  Democrats are also working to honor our commitment to those who have served our country in the military by keeping our promise to returning soldiers and providing health care for Reservists.  Republicans hav rejected these proposals. 

Together, Democrats will continue to press for the answers the American people deserve about the misuse of pre-war intelligence to justify the war in Iraq.

These ideas have been defeated only because Republicans voted against the priorities of the American people.  The votes outlined below illustrate the stark differences between the Democrats' unified commitment to American priorities and Republicans' commitment to their special interest agenda.

They also demonstrate the Democrats' unity in fighting the misplaced priorities and failed polices that Republicans have put forward.  Republicans have lost control of deficits, gas prices, Iraq and health care costs.  That is why Democrats are seeking a new direction for our country.

One year from now, the most important vote will occur - the vote of the American people.  In November 2006, America will have a clear choice between Democrats' dedication to America's priorities and Republicans' ethically challenged special interest agenda.  Democrats believe that together, America can do better.

Links
Democratic National Committee
Sen. Harry Reid, Democratic Leader
House Democrats
Copyright © 2005  Eric M. Appleman/Democracy in Action