Senator Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, on a book tour for her recent publication, but also rousing progressives with her inspiring ideas, gave a speech last week at Netroots Nation, the progressive gathering often seen as the alternative to the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) held annually.
Warren summarized the views of those who are progressives and liberals, including:
The need for regulation of Wall Street.
The belief in science, and its role in preserving our environment.
Neutrality on the internet, not favoring powerful corporations.
Raising the minimum wage, therefore allowing a full time worker to avoid living in poverty.
A livable wage for fast food workers, with public support for them being demonstrated.
The avoidance of crushing college loan debt for students, by arranging realistic debt payments.
Protection of Social Security, Medicare, and pensions, so that retired workers can live in dignity.
Equal pay for equal work for men and women.
Promotion of equality in marriage, including gay marriage.
The need for immigration reform, as immigration is part of the story of American history.
The belief that women should control their own bodies, and corporations should not control the private lives and medical care of any of their workforce.
Also, her conclusion about conservatives is so appropriate, that they will do whatever they need to do to protect their own interests, and would say to all of the rest of us that you are on your own!