The devastating effects of the Bush Administration's failed economic policy are now appearing in the form of a weak economy, rising prices, and a volatile stock market. The next Congress should act to restore our long-term economic health by investing in education and the country's infrastructure.
Much of our economic difficulty can be traced back to Iraq and the healthcare crisis. The $500 billion that has been squandered in Iraq could have been used to make investments that would contribute to our country's growth. Healthcare expenses, meanwhile, continue to be a tremendous burden for businesses and consumers alike. Not only are healthcare expenses a leading cause of personal bankruptcy, they also hamper our efforts to be competitive in a world economy.