Another take on how to approach the start of the Biden presidency

Here are my thoughts, and response the this piece in WaPo today.

Yes, in terms of what can be done without the do-nothing/obstructionist Republicans in the Senate. 

But at the same time, pick a battle in the Congress that you can win to make 2022 a more realistic chance to GAIN seats.  This is the battle for direct cash payments to combat the pandemic and its economic fallout.  82% of voters approve of more rounds of stimulus checks.  Sending three months at $1,000 /month would be the same as the $900 billion proposed. 

Do not combine it with anything else.  Make them vote on sending help to people who need it, or not. As much as I am in favor of helping states deal with their budgetary issues, make that a separate fight.

Make it universal and therefore fair.  Sell it as essential for small business and families.  Do not take the bait of talking about how to afford it.  Means-test the tax next year, not the benefit this year.

This is the issue that can truly change people's minds about the efficiency of government, and about the fact that government is not the problem, but a part of the solution.

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