So maybe it seems like a no brainer: of course all Democratic candidates are gonna say yes, yes, yes, all you families need help. Then we elect them, and, as is often the case, we get nothin'. But at least this time they've all got wind of the fact that American families need help, are clamoring for it (loudly, if we have anything to say about it), and will vote on it. That's progress, mamas.
We noted a few weeks back that TakeCare Net (love them) had sent out a survey in October to all major Presidential Candidates (loads of organizations you recognize are involved with Take Care Net, including Moms Rising and 9 to 5). Not surprisingly, the D's responded and the R's didn't. And while they all generally supported the type of policies needed to support families (it's about time!!), there were some differences. You can read all about them in the 12.27.07 press release and the results summary.
Among all this rah-rah go families stuff, there is a real downside that is all too familiar. The summary notes reluctance among candidates on two "cutting-edge issues":
- Broadening the definition of family members under the FMLA to permit care for gay and lesbian partners, parents-in-law, adult children, siblings, and grandparents. This broadens the meaning of family in ways that might not affect large numbers of Americans, but are crucial when someone close is in need of care.
- Converting the Child Tax Credit to a Caregiver Credit covering disabled family members and dependent children. This highlights the care needs of adults with disabilities adults, a group that is all too often ignored in policy debates.
Oh, mamas. There's a lot wrapped up here, but mainly - in my humble opinion - the political reality that going on record to support an expanded definition of family in this country does not show well at the polls (to say the least). I have to hope that these candidates believe otherwise and will act accordingly once in office (wishful thinking?). Sometimes progress is slow, I know, but really.
How do these results make you feel? Hopeful? Depressed? Like it's so much talk?
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