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Obama’s first 100 days

Dear President-Elect Obama,

You have commented that it would be more appropriate to discuss our success as a nation after the first 1000 days; the traditional 100 days litmus test might not provide the instant gratification we are all searching for. While it is likely that not much immediate change will come in those days, they are crucial. It will take years to remedy the problems we are facing now, but the first days represent the action that will be taken over the course of the administration and hint to the American people the resolve and dedication for change.

No one is excluded from the effects of the economic turmoil of our country. The problem is that money alone cannot undo the years of disregard for public programs and economic malfeasance. Our goals cannot revolve around short-term gains, and at this critical juncture, all generations should feel that their future is secure. Although at this time I am not a homeowner or a person recovering from a loss to my investments, I am someone whose future is indebted to the change heralded on your campaign trail. I am part of the generation that in fifteen years will own a home and hold investments. I do believe that this kind of crisis can be avoided. With haste and grit, your 100 days can echo that determination, and we can focus on issues that will pull us out of the trenches and produce long-term sustainability.

College Tuition
Tuition costs have more than doubled in the last eight years. Right now, students can expect to have up to $80,000 of debt upon graduation and we have seen no relief on the state or national level. This affects not only our unemployment rates and quality of life but our global image as well.

Stimulus Package
States are hurting. Even those with a surplus in the budget have begun to cut programs and ask for decreased spending. Providing genuine relief to states and local factions will help to maintain needed public services and programs.

Iraq
Develop a plan for withdrawal that includes an effective timeline and upholds a sturdy Iraqi government. It is important in our global interaction that we follow through and that we adhere to that timeline.

Energy and Green Jobs
Provide an energy plan that works to build a green business infrastructure. Continue to explore ways to end our dependence on foreign oil. This effectively works to reduce global warming and carbon emissions, generates much needed jobs, and enhances our national security.

Main Street Bail Out
Families need assistance to secure their homes. Provide a plan that allows homeowners relief but the opportunity to discuss the terms of their mortgage so that debts can be paid and alleviated.




Category: U.S.

About the Author: Courtney Graham, an Austinite for seven years, has been fascinated with the political scene since she was a kid. Her family, rooted in traditional southern values, remains deeply conservative. Growing up, Courtney became the liberal black sheep of the family. Much to their chagrin, she welcomed the opposition of ideals, and used the lively debates over dinner as development for her own political beliefs. Since we define our political culture through labels, Courtney considers herself obstinately Democratic. Courtney moved to Austin to attend The University of Texas and has continuously worked full time while pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Government and English. She interned for Democratic State Representatives Mark Homer and Mark Strama before landing a job with Representative Tracy O. King during the 80th Texas Legislature. Representative King chaired the House Committee on Border and International Affairs, so Courtney split her work between the committee and Capitol office. She left the Legislature in 2007 and currently works for the Texas Travel Industry Association as the executive assistant to the CEO and staff liaison for their legislative affairs committee. Courtney couldn’t be happier with the results of the presidential election. She is especially proud of her peers for taking an active role in the support of both candidates and the voting process. Perhaps somewhat naïve, she truly believes that one voice speaking loudly enough can have a huge impact. Her lifelong political heroes are Martin Luther King, Jr., Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Henry David Thoreau.

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