Party Platform election 2008 - Two Visions for AmericA
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Party
Platform
Comparison Resource
Election 2008
Two Visions for America
Democrats Republicans
on the Issues
Party Platforms
The Issues
This resource contains excerpts from the Democratic and Republican party platforms. It contains no com-
mentary or analysis. It utilizes the party platforms, not the voting records or comments of the particular
candidates, for its content.
In developing this guide, the two platforms were carefully compared issue by issue. A concerted effort was
made to identify specific proposals and pledges made by each party on selected issues and not include
campaign rhetoric. When one party addressed issues not cited by the other party,
e.g., religious liberty and gambling, we did not include those issues in the
comparison resource. Given the constraints of space, not every issue or
proposal could be included.
While we made every effort to be thoroughly objective in our development of this
piece, nothing can substitute for voters reviewing the entire platforms themselves. To assist
you in using this resource, we have placed the page numbers where excerpted sections are
found in the particular party platforms in parenthesis throughout the guide. You may view
each party’s entire platform online at www.ivotevalues.com/party_platforms or www.democrats.
org/a/party/platform.html and www.gop.com/2008Platform.
Issue Democrat Republican
Life The Democratic Party strongly and unequivocally supports Roe v. Wade and a woman’s right to We oppose school-based clinics that provide referrals, counseling, and related services for
choose a safe and legal abortion, regardless of ability to pay, and we oppose any and all efforts abortion and contraception. (45)
to weaken or undermine that right. (50)
…we assert the inherent dignity and sanctity of all human life and affirm that the unborn
The Democratic Party also strongly supports access to comprehensive affordable family plan- child has a fundamental individual right to life which cannot be infringed. We support a hu-
ning services and age-appropriate sex education which empower people to make informed man life amendment to the Constitution, and we endorse legislation to make clear that the
choices and live healthy lives. We also recognize that such health care and education help re- Fourteenth Amendment’s protections apply to unborn children. We oppose using public rev-
duce the number of unintended pregnancies and thereby also reduce the need for abortions. enues to promote or perform abortion and will not fund organizations which advocate it. We
support the appointment of judges who respect traditional family values and the sanctity and
The Democratic Party also strongly supports a woman’s decision to have a child by ensuring
dignity of innocent human life. (52)
access to and availability of programs for pre- and post-natal health care, parenting skills,
income support, and caring adoption programs. (50-51) …we oppose the non-consensual withholding of care or treatment from people with dis-
abilities, as well as the elderly and infirm, just as we oppose euthanasia and assisted suicide,
which endanger especially those on the margins of society. (52-53)
Civil Rights Democrats will fight to end discrimination based on race, sex, ethnicity, national origin, lan- Our commitment to equal opportunity extends from landmark school-choice legislation for
guage, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, and disability in every corner of our the students of Washington D.C. to historic appointments at the highest levels of government.
country, because that’s the America we believe in. (51) We consider discrimination based on sex, race, age, religion, creed, disability, or national origin
to be immoral, and we will strongly enforce anti-discrimination statutes. We ask all to join us
We will restore vigorous federal enforcement of civil rights laws in order to provide every
in rejecting the forces of hatred and bigotry and in denouncing all who practice or promote
American an equal chance at employment, housing, health, contracts, and pay. We are com-
racism, anti-Semitism, ethnic prejudice, or religious intolerance. (51-52)
mitted to banning racial, ethnic, and religious profiling and requiring federal, state, and local
enforcement agencies to take steps to eliminate the practice. (52) Precisely because we oppose discrimination, we reject preferences, quotas, and set-asides,
whether in education or in corporate boardrooms. The government should not make contracts
We will pass the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act. (52)
on this basis, and neither should corporations. We support efforts to help low-income indi-
We support the full inclusion of all families, including same-sex couples, in the life of our viduals get a fair shot based on their potential and merit, and we affirm the common-sense
nation, and support equal responsibility, benefits, and protections. We will enact a compre- approach of the Chief Justice of the United States: that the way to stop discriminating on the
hensive bipartisan employment non-discrimination act. We oppose the Defense of Marriage basis of race is to stop discriminating. (52)
Act and all attempts to use this issue to divide us. (52)
We support freedom of speech and freedom of the press and oppose attempts to violate or
weaken those rights, such as reinstatement of the so-called Fairness Doctrine. (52)
The Issues Party Platforms
Issue Democrat Republican
Disease We support increased funding into research, care and prevention of HIV/AIDS. We support a Decades of massive aid have failed to spur economic growth in the poorest countries, where
and comprehensive national strategic plan to combat HIV/AIDS and a Ryan White Care Act de- it has often propped up failed policies and corrupt rulers. We will target foreign assistance to
Poverty signed and funded to meet today’s epidemic…We support providing Medicaid coverage to high-impact goals: fostering the rule of law through democratic government; emphasizing
more low-income HIV-positive Americans. (14) literacy and learning; and, concentrating on the foundations for economic development –
clean water, agricultural improvement, and microcredit funding for small enterprises. Mater-
We will provide $50 billion over five years to strengthen existing U.S. programs and expand
nal and child health, especially safer childbirthing and nutrition, must be priorities, especially
them to new regions of the world, including Southeast Asia, India, and parts of Europe, where
in countries affected by epidemics of HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis. (8)
the HIV/AIDS burden is growing. We will increase U.S. contributions to the Global Fund to
ensure that global efforts to fight endemic disease continue to move ahead. (42) Abstinence from sexual activity is the only protection that is 100 percent effective against
out-of-wedlock pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS when
Working together, we can cut poverty in half within ten years. We will provide all our children
transmitted sexually. (45)
a world-class education, from early childhood through college. We will develop innovative
transitional job programs that place unemployed people into temporary jobs and train them
for permanent ones. (15)
Human We will address human trafficking – both labor and sex trafficking – through strong leg- ...We advocate the establishment of an Inter-Agency Task Force on Human Trafficking, report-
Trafficking islation and enforcement to ensure that trafficking victims are protected and traffickers are ing directly to the President, and call for increased diplomatic efforts with foreign govern-
brought to justice. We will also address the root causes of human trafficking, including poverty, ments that have been negligent toward this evil. The principle underlying our Megan’s Law
discrimination, and gender inequality, as well as the demand for prostitution. (42) – publicizing the identities of known offenders – should be extended to international travel
in order to protect innocent children everywhere. (7)
“Ultimately, our loyalty belongs not to any political party or candidate, but to God Almighty.”
—Richard Land
Energy We will provide an immediate energy rebate to American families struggling with the record We reject the idea that America cannot overcome its energy challenges – or that high gasoline
price of gasoline and the skyrocketing cost of other necessities – to spend on those basic needs prices are okay, as long as they are phased in gradually. We reject half-measures and believe
and energy efficient measures. (8) “No, we can’t” is not a viable energy policy. (31)
We should use government procurement policies to incentivize domestic production of clean If we are to have the resources we need to achieve energy independence, we simply must
and renewable energy…In platform hearings around the country, Americans called for a draw more American oil from American soil. We support accelerated exploration, drilling and
Manhattan or Apollo Project-level commitment to achieve energy independence. We hear development in America, from new oilfields off the nation’s coasts to onshore fields such as
that call and we Democrats commit to fast-track investment of billions of dollars over the next those in Montana, North Dakota, and Alaska. (31)
ten years to establish a green energy sector that will create up to five million jobs….
To deliver that energy to American consumers, we will expand our refining capacity….We
We know we can’t drill our way to energy independence and so we must summon all of our will encourage refinery construction and modernization and, with sensitivity to environmen-
ingenuity and legendary hard work and we must invest in research and development, and tal concerns, an expedited permitting process.
deployment of renewable energy technologies – such as solar, wind, geothermal, as well as
…Confident in the promise offered by science and technology, Republicans will pursue
technologies to store energy through advanced batteries and clean up our coal plants…We
dramatic increases in the use of all forms of safe, affordable, reliable – and clean – nuclear
will help pay for all of it by dedicating a portion of the revenues generated by an economy-
power. (32)
wide cap and trade program – a step that will also dramatically reduce our greenhouse gas
emissions and jumpstart billions in private capital investment in a new energy economy…To The technology behind solar energy has improved significantly in recent years, and the com-
lower the price of gasoline, we will crack down on speculators who are driving up prices be- mercial development of wind power promises major benefits both in costs and in environ-
yond the natural market rate. We will direct the Federal Trade Commission and Department of mental protection. Republicans support these and other alternative energy sources, including
Justice to vigorously investigate and prosecute market manipulation in oil futures. And we will geothermal and hydropower, and anticipate technological developments that will increase
help those who are hit hardest by high energy prices by increasing funding for low-income their economic viability. We therefore advocate a long-term energy tax credit equally appli-
heating assistance and weatherization programs, and by providing energy assistance to help cable to all renewable power sources. (32)
middle-class families make ends meet in this time of inflated energy prices. (17-18)
Although alternate fuels will shape our energy future, coal – America’s most affordable and
We will make it a top priority to reduce oil consumption by at least 35 percent, or ten million abundant energy resource and the source of most of our electricity – remains a strategic na-
barrels per day, by 2030. This will more than offset the amount of oil we are expected to import tional resource that must play a major role in energy independence… (33)
from OPEC nations in 2030. (43)
Natural gas is plentiful in North America, but we can extract more and do a better job of
distributing it nationwide… (33)
Party Platforms
The Issues
Issue Democrat Republican
National This century’s threats are at least as dangerous as, and in some ways more complex than, those Along with unrelenting vigilance to prevent bioterrorism and other WMD-related attacks, we
Security we have confronted in the past. They come from weapons that can kill on a mass scale and must regularly exercise our ability to quickly respond if one were to occur. We must continue
and from violent extremists who exploit alienation and perceived injustice to spread terror…We to remove barriers to cooperation and information sharing. Modernized 9-1-1 services must
will confront these threats head on while working with our allies and restoring our standing in be made universally available and be adequately funded. We must be able to thwart cyber
Combating the world. We will pursue a tough, smart, and principled national security strategy. (28) attacks that could cripple our economy, monitor terrorist activities while respecting Americans’
Terrorism civil liberties, and protect against military and industrial espionage and sabotage. (2)
The central front in the war on terror is not Iraq, and it never was. We will defeat Al Qaeda
in Afghanistan and Pakistan, where those who actually attacked us on 9-11 reside and are The gravest threat we face – nuclear terrorism – demands a comprehensive strategy for re-
resurgent. (29) ducing the world’s nuclear stockpiles and preventing proliferation. The U.S. should lead that
effort by reducing the size of our nuclear arsenal to the lowest number consistent with our
The greatest threat to the security of the Afghan people – and the American people – lies in
security requirements and working with other nuclear powers to do the same. In coopera-
the tribal regions of Pakistan, where terrorists train, plot attacks, and strike into Afghanistan
tion with other nations, we should end the production of weapons-grade fissile material, im-
and move back across the border. We cannot tolerate a sanctuary for Al Qaeda. We need a
prove our collective ability to interdict the spread of weapons of mass destruction and related
stronger and sustained partnership between Afghanistan, Pakistan, and NATO – including
materials, and ensure the highest possible security standards for existing nuclear materials
necessary assets like satellites and predator drones – to better secure the border, to take out
wherever they may be located. (2)
terrorist camps, and to crack down on cross-border insurgents. (30)
We must develop and deploy both national and theater missile defenses to protect the Ameri-
Beyond Afghanistan and Pakistan, we must forge a more effective global response to terror-
can homeland, our people, our Armed Forces abroad, and our allies. Effective, layered missile
ism. There must be no safe haven for those who plot to kill Americans. We need a compre-
defenses are critical to guard against the unpredictable actions of rogue regimes and outlaw
hensive strategy to defeat global terrorists – one that draws on the full range of American
states, reduce the possibility of strategic blackmail, and avoid the disastrous consequences of
power, including but not limited to our military might. We will create a properly resourced
an accidental or unauthorized launch by a foreign power. (2)
Shared Security Partnership to enhance counter-terrorism cooperation with countries around
the world, including through information sharing as well as funding for training, operations, Intelligence is America’s first line of defense. We must increase the ranks and resources of our
border security, anti-corruption programs, technology, and targeting terrorist financing. (30) human intelligence capabilities, integrate technical and human sources, and get that informa-
tion more quickly to the warfighter and the policy maker. The multi-jurisdictional arrange-
Here at home, we will strengthen our security and protect the critical infrastructure on which
ments that now prevail on Capitol Hill should be replaced by a single Joint Committee on
the entire world depends. We will fully fund and implement the recommendations of the
Intelligence. (2)
bipartisan 9-11 Commission. We will spend homeland security dollars on the basis of risk.
This means investing more resources to defend mass transit, closing the gaps in our aviation
security by screening all cargo on passenger airliners and checking all passengers against a
reliable and comprehensive watch list, and upgrading plant security and port security by en-
suring that cargo is screened for radiation…And we will develop a comprehensive National
Infrastructure Protection Plan that draws on both local know-how and national priorities. We
will ensure direct coordination with state, local, and tribal jurisdictions so that first responders
are always resourced and prepared. (30-31)
Judicial For our Judiciary, we will select and confirm judges who are men and women of unquestion- Republicans will insist on the appointment of constitutionalist judges, men and women who
Appoint- able talent and character, who firmly respect the rule of law, who listen to and are respectful of will not distort our founding documents to deny the people’s right to self-government, sanc-
ments different points of view, and who represent the diversity of America. We support the appoint- tion federal powers that violate our liberties, or inject foreign law into American jurisprudence.
ment of judges who respect our system of checks and balances and the separation of power (20)
among the Executive Branch, Congress, and the Judiciary–and who understand that the Con-
…Nominees must have a record of fidelity to the U.S. Constitution and the rule of law. (20)
stitution protects not only the powerful, but also the disadvantaged and the powerless. (55)
…we insist that the Senate should never inquire into a nominee’s religious convictions…
(20)
Seniors Seniors and people with disabilities should have access to quality affordable long-term care We support the provision of quality and accessible health care options for our nation’s seniors
and services, and those services should be readily available at home and in the community. ...we and disabled individuals and recognize that in order to meet this goal we must confront the
Disabled will eliminate all federal income taxes for seniors making less than $50,000 per year. (13) special challenges posed by the growth of Medicare costs. Its projected growth is out of control
and threatens to squeeze out other programs, while funding constraints lead to restricted ac-
We will provide assistance to those who need long-term care and to the working men and
cess to treatment for many seniors…Medicare patients must have more control of their care
women of this country who do the heroic job of providing care for their aging relatives. (15)
and choice regarding their doctors, and the benefits of competition must be delivered to the
We will protect and strengthen Medicare by cutting costs, protecting seniors from fraud, and patients themselves if Medicare is to provide quality health care. (41)
fixing Medicare’s prescription drug program. We will repeal the prohibition on negotiating
prescription drug prices, ban drug companies from paying generic producers to refrain from
entering drug markets, and eliminate drug company interference with generic competition.
We will take steps to ensure that our seniors have meaningful long-term care options that are
consistent with their individual needs, including the option of home care. (50)
The Issues Party Platforms
Issue Democrat Republican
Social We will safeguard Social Security. We will develop new retirement plans and pension protec- Our society faces a profound demographic shift over the next twenty-five years, from today’s
Security tions that will give Americans a secure, portable way to save for retirement. We will ensure a ratio of 3.3 workers for every retiree to only 2.1 workers by 2034. Under the current system,
and safe and dignified retirement. We will work to end abuse of the elderly. We will safeguard from younger workers will not be able to depend on Social Security as part of their retirement plan.
discrimination those who choose to work past the age of 65. (50) We believe the solution should give workers control over, and a fair return on, their contribu-
Retirement tions. No changes in the system should adversely affect any current or near-retiree. Compre-
We will automatically enroll every worker in a workplace pension plan that can be carried from
hensive reform should include the opportunity to freely choose to create your own personal
job to job and we will match savings for working families who need the help…We also will
investment accounts which are distinct from and supplemental to the overall Social Security
reform corporate bankruptcy laws so that workers’ retirements are a priority for funding and
system. (19)
workers are not left with worthless IOU’s after years of service. Finally, we will eliminate all
federal income taxes for seniors making less than $50,000 per year. (13)
…We will fulfill our obligation to strengthen Social Security and to make sure that it pro-
vides guaranteed benefits Americans can count on, now and in future generations. We will
not privatize it. (13-14)
Economy We will devote $50 billion to jumpstarting the economy, helping economic growth, and pre- To master the global economy, our work force must be creative, independent, and able to
venting another one million jobs from being lost. This will include assistance to states and adapt to rapid change. (26)
localities to prevent them from having to cut their vital services like education, health care, and
The Industrial Revolution treated people like machines; today’s economy must treat them as
infrastructure. We will quickly implement the housing bill recently passed by Congress and
individuals. We recognize that work schedules should be more flexible when employers and
ensure that states and localities that have been hard-hit by the housing crisis can avoid cuts in
employees are not negatively affected such as removing outdated distinctions between full
vital services. We support investments in infrastructure to replenish the highway trust fund, in-
time and part time, clock-punching and overtime. (26)
vest in road and bridge maintenance and fund new, fast-tracked projects to repair schools. We
believe that it is essential to take immediate steps to stem the loss of manufacturing jobs. (8) America’s producers can compete successfully in the international arena – as long as they have
a level playing field. Today’s tax code is tilted against them, with one of the highest corporate
We will invest in American jobs and finally end the tax breaks that ship jobs overseas…We
tax rates of all developed countries. That not only hurts American investors, managers, and the
will bring together government, private industry, workers, and academia to turn around the
U.S. balance of trade; it also sends American jobs overseas. We support a major reduction in
manufacturing sector of the U.S. economy and provide assistance to automakers and parts
the corporate tax rate so that American companies stay competitive with their foreign coun-
companies to encourage retooling of facilities in this country to produce advanced technology
terparts and American jobs can remain in this country. (24)
vehicles and their key components. (21-22)
…we will attack the rise in energy costs that is making it so difficult for entrepreneurs to
We will exempt all start-up companies from capital gains taxes and provide them a tax credit
compete. (25)
for health insurance. We will provide a new tax credit for small businesses that offer quality
health insurance to their employees. (23) Our determination to vigorously open foreign markets to American products is an opportunity
for many small businesses to grow larger in the global economy. (26)
We will enforce trade laws and safeguard our workers, businesses, and farmers from unfair
trade practices–including currency manipulation, lax consumer standards, illegal subsidies, Greater international trade, aggressively advanced on a truly level playing field, will mean
and violations of workers’ rights and environmental standards. We must also show leadership more American jobs, higher wages, and a better standard of living. It is also a matter of na-
at the World Trade Organization to improve transparency and accountability, and to ensure tional security and an instrument to promote democracy and civil society in developing na-
it acts effectively to stop countries from continuing unfair government subsidies to foreign tions. (29)
exporters and non-tariff barriers on U.S. exports. (26)
An aggressive trade strategy is especially important with regard to agriculture. Our farm
We will negotiate bilateral trade agreements that open markets to U.S. exports and include economy produces for the world; its prosperity depends, more than ever before, on open
enforceable international labor and environmental standards; we pledge to enforce those markets….We will contest any restrictions upon our farm products within the World Trade
standards consistently and fairly. We will not negotiate bilateral trade agreements that stop Organization and will work to make the WTO’s decision-making process more receptive to the
the government from protecting the environment, food safety, or the health of its citizens; arguments of American producers. (29)
give greater rights to foreign investors than to U.S. investors; require the privatization of our
vital public services; or prevent developing country governments from adopting humanitarian
licensing policies to improve access to life-saving medications….We will work with Canada
and Mexico to amend the North American Free Trade Agreement so that it works better for all
three North American countries…We will end tax breaks for companies that ship American
jobs overseas, and provide incentives for companies that keep and maintain good jobs here in
the United States. (26-27)
Party Platforms
The Issues
Issue Democrat Republican
Education The Democratic Party firmly believes that graduation from a quality public school and the All children should have access to an excellent education that empowers them to secure their
opportunity to succeed in college must be the birthright of every child – not the privilege own freedom and contribute to the betterment of our society. (43)
of the few. (18)
We reject a one-size-fits-all approach and support parental options, including home school-
We will expand the childcare tax credit, provide every child access to quality, affordable early ing, and local innovations such as schools or classes for boys only or for girls only and al-
childhood education, and double funding for after-school and summer learning opportunities ternative and innovative school schedules. We recognize and appreciate the importance of
for children. (15) innovative education environments, particularly homeschooling, for stimulating academic
achievement. We oppose over-reaching judicial decisions which deny children access to such
We cannot accept the persistent achievement gap between minority and white students or
environments. (43)
the harmful disparities that exist between different schools within a state or even a district.
(18) Teachers must be protected against frivolous litigation and should be able to take reasonable
actions to maintain discipline and order in the classroom. (44)
Our Children’s First Agenda, including increases in Head Start and Early Head Start, and invest-
ments in high-quality Pre-K, will improve quality and provide learning and support to families Parents should be able to decide the learning environment that is best for their child. We sup-
with children ages zero to five. Our Presidential Early Learning Council will coordinate these port choice in education for all families, especially those with children trapped in dangerous
efforts. (19) and failing schools, whether through charter schools, vouchers or tax credits for attending
faith-based or other non-public schools, or the option of home schooling. We call for the vigi-
We must ensure that every student has a high-quality teacher and an effective principal. That
lant enforcement of laws designed to protect family rights and privacy in education. We will
starts with recruiting a new generation of teachers and principals by making this pledge – if
energetically assert the right of students to engage in voluntary prayer in schools and to have
you commit your life to teaching, America will commit to paying for your college education…
equal access to school facilities for religious purposes. (44-45)
We’ll reward effective teachers who teach in underserved areas, take on added responsibilities
like mentoring new teachers, or consistently excel in the classroom…We support full funding …We call for a review of Department of Education programs and administration to iden-
of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. We also support transitional bilingual educa- tify and eliminate ineffective programs, to respect the role of states, and to better meet state
tion and will help Limited English Proficient students get ahead by supporting and funding needs. (45)
English Language Learner classes. (20)
Because a federal mandate on the states must include the promised federal funding, we will
Responsibility for our children’s education has to start at home. (20) fulfill the promise of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act to cover 40 percent of the
costs incurred because of that legislation. (45)
College …At community colleges and training programs across the country, we will invest in …We must ensure that our higher education system meet the needs of the 21st century
Education short-term accelerated training and technical certifications for the unemployed and under- student and economy and remain innovative and accessible. (45)
employed to speed their transition to careers in high-demand occupations and emerging
…While federal student loans and grants have opened doors to learning for untold numbers
industries. We will reward successful community colleges with grants so they can continue
of low- and middle-income students, the overall financial aid system, with its daunting forms
their good work. (20)
and confused rationales, is nothing less than Byzantine. It must be simplified. (46)
We will make college affordable for all Americans by creating a new American Opportunity Tax
Free speech on college campuses is to be celebrated, but there should be no place in academia
Credit to ensure that the first $4,000 of a college education is completely free for most Ameri-
for anti-Semitism or racism of any kind. We oppose the hiring, firing, tenure, and promotion
cans. In exchange for the credit, students will be expected to perform community service. We
practices at universities that discriminate on the basis of political or ideological belief. (46)
will continue to support programs, especially the Pell Grant program, that open the doors of
college opportunity to low-income Americans. (21)
“Elections belong to the people. It is their decision. If they decide to turn their back
on the fire and burn their behinds, then they will just have to sit on their blisters.”
—Abraham Lincoln, U.S. President
Homo- …We support the repeal of “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” and the implementation of policies to allow Military priorities and mission must determine personnel policies. Esprit and cohesion are
sexuals qualified men and women to serve openly regardless of sexual orientation. (36) necessary for military effectiveness and success on the battlefield. To protect our servicemen
in Military and women and ensure that America’s Armed Forces remain the best in the world, we affirm
Democrats will fight to end discrimination based on race, sex, ethnicity, national origin, lan-
the timelessness of those values, the benefits of traditional military culture, and the incompat-
guage, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, and disability in every corner of our
ibility of homosexuality with military service. (5)
country, because that’s the America we believe in. (51)
The Issues Party Platforms
Issue Democrat Republican
Gun We recognize that the right to bear arms is an important part of the American tradition, and We uphold the right of individual Americans to own firearms, a right which antedated the
Ownership we will preserve Americans’ Second Amendment right to own and use firearms. We believe Constitution and was solemnly confirmed by the Second Amendment. We applaud the Su-
that the right to own firearms is subject to reasonable regulation, but we know that what preme Court’s decision in Heller affirming that right, and we assert the individual responsibility
works in Chicago may not work in Cheyenne. We can work together to enact and enforce to safely use and store firearms. We call on the next president to appoint judges who will
common-sense laws and improvements – like closing the gun show loophole, improving similarly respect the Constitution…. (51)
our background check system, and reinstating the assault weapons ban, so that guns do not
We condemn frivolous lawsuits against firearms manufacturers, which are transparent at-
fall into the hands of terrorists or criminals. Acting responsibly and with respect for differing
tempts to deprive citizens of their rights. We oppose federal licensing of law-abiding gun
views on this issue, we can both protect the constitutional right to bear arms and keep our
owners and national gun registration as violations of the Second Amendment…. (51)
communities and our children safe. (48)
Environ- We will lead to defeat the epochal, man-made threat to the planet: climate change…. The Republican perspective on the environment is in keeping with our longstanding apprecia-
ment tion for nature and gratitude for the bounty the Almighty has bestowed upon the American
Never again will we sit on the sidelines, or stand in the way of collective action to tackle this
people. (36)
global challenge. Getting our own house in order is only a first step. We will invest in efficient
and clean technologies at home while using our assistance policies and export promotions to As part of a global climate change strategy, Republicans support technology-driven, market-
help developing countries preserve biodiversity, curb deforestation, and leapfrog the carbon- based solutions that will decrease emissions, reduce excess greenhouse gasses in the atmo-
energy-intensive stage of development. sphere, increase energy efficiency, mitigate the impact of climate change where it occurs, and
maximize any ancillary benefits climate change might offer for the economy. (35)
We will reach out to the leaders of the biggest carbon emitting nations and ask them to join
a new Global Energy Forum that will lay the foundation for the next generation of climate To reduce emissions in the short run, we will rely upon the power of new technologies…
protocols…. (43) especially zero-emission energy sources such as nuclear and other alternate power sources.
(35)
Global climate change is the planet’s greatest threat, and our response will determine the very
future of life on this earth…. Because the issue of climate change is global, it must become a truly global concern as well.
All developed and developing economies, particularly India and China, can make significant
We will implement a market-based cap and trade system to reduce carbon emissions by
contributions in dealing with the matter. It would be unrealistic and counterproductive to ex-
the amount scientists say is necessary to avoid catastrophic change and we will set interim
pect the U.S. to carry burdens which are more appropriately shared by all. (35)
targets along the way to ensure that we meet our goal. We will invest in advanced energy
technologies, to build the clean energy economy and create millions of new, good “Green Republicans caution against the doomsday climate change scenarios peddled by the aficio-
Collar” American jobs. Because the environment is a truly global concern, the United States nados of centralized command-and-control government. We can – and should – address
must be a leader in combating climate change around the world, including exporting climate- the risk of climate change based on sound science without succumbing to the no-growth
friendly technologies to developing countries. We will use innovative measures to dramatically radicalism that treats climate questions as dogma rather than as situations to be managed
improve the energy efficiency of buildings, including establishing a grant program for early responsibly. (36)
adopters and providing incentives for energy conservation. We will encourage local initiatives,
sustainable communities, personal responsibility, and environmental stewardship and educa-
tion nationwide.
…We support a comprehensive solution for restoring our national treasures – such as the
Great Lakes, Everglades, and Chesapeake Bay – including expanded scientific research and
protections for species and habitats there. We will reinvigorate the Environmental Protection
Agency so that we can work with communities to reduce air and water pollution and protect
our children from environmental toxins, and never sacrifice science to politics. We will protect
Nevada and its communities from the high-level nuclear waste dump at Yucca Mountain,
which has not been proven to be safe by sound science. We will restore the “polluter pays”
principle to fund the cleanup of the most polluted sites, so that those who cause environmen-
tal problems pay to fix them. (46-47)
Same-Sex We support the full inclusion of all families, including same-sex couples, in the life of our Because our children’s future is best preserved within the traditional understanding of mar-
“Marriage” nation, and support equal responsibility, benefits, and protections. We will enact a compre- riage, we call for a constitutional amendment that fully protects marriage as a union of a man
hensive bipartisan employment non-discrimination act. We oppose the Defense of Marriage and a woman, so that judges cannot make other arrangements equivalent to it. In the absence
Act and all attempts to use this issue to divide us. (52) of a national amendment, we support the right of the people of the various states to affirm
traditional marriage through state initiatives. (53)
…We also urge Congress to use its Article III, Section 2 power to prevent activist federal
judges from imposing upon the rest of the nation the judicial activism in Massachusetts and
California. (53)
Party Platforms
The Issues
Issue Democrat Republican
Faith- Faith-based groups are not a replacement for government or secular non-profit programs; …Bureaucracy is no longer a credible approach to helping those in need. This is especially true
Based rather, they are yet another sector working to meet the challenges of the 21st century. We will in light of alternatives such as faith-based organizations, which tend to have a greater degree
Initiatives empower grassroots faith-based and community groups to help meet challenges like poverty, of success than others in dealing with problems such as substance abuse and domestic vio-
ex-offender reentry, and illiteracy. At the same time, we can ensure that these partnerships do lence. To accomplish their missions, those groups must be able to rely upon people who share
not endanger First Amendment protections – because there is no conflict between supporting their faith; their hiring must not be subjected to government regulation and mandates. (50)
faith-based institutions and respecting our Constitution. We will ensure that public funds are
We affirm every citizen’s right to apply religious values to public policy and the right of faith-
not used to proselytize or discriminate. (48)
based organizations to participate fully in public programs without renouncing their beliefs,
removing religious objects or symbols, or becoming subject to government-imposed hiring
practices. Forcing religious groups to abandon their beliefs as applied to their hiring practices
is religious discrimination. (54)
Health Democrats are united around a commitment that every American man, woman, and child be Republicans believe the key to real reform is to give control of the health care system to pa-
Care guaranteed affordable, comprehensive healthcare. (9) tients and their health care providers, not bureaucrats in government or business. (37)
Families and individuals should have the option of keeping the coverage they have or choosing Republicans support the private practice of medicine and oppose socialized medicine in the
from a wide array of health insurance plans, including many private health insurance options form of a government-run universal health care system. (37)
and a public plan. Coverage should be made affordable for all Americans with subsidies pro-
Republicans believe all Americans should be able to obtain an affordable health care plan,
vided through tax credits and other means… (10)
including a health savings account, which meets their needs and the needs of their families.
All Americans should have coverage they can afford; employers should have incentives to (38)
provide coverage to their workers; insurers and providers should ensure high quality afford-
Families and health care providers are the key to real reform, not lawyers and bureaucrats.
able care; and the government should ensure that health insurance is affordable and provides
To empower families, we must make insurance more affordable and more secure, and give
meaningful coverage. (10)
employees the option of owning coverage that is not tied to their job. (38)
Health insurance plans should accept all applicants and be prohibited from charging different
…All Americans should receive the same tax benefit as those who are insured through work,
prices based on pre-existing conditions…Premiums collected by insurers should be primar-
whether through a tax credit or other means. (38)
ily dedicated to care, not profits. We should increase competition in the insurance and drug
markets; remove some of the cost burden of catastrophic illness from employers and their em- Every patient must have access to legal remedies for malpractice, but meritless lawsuits drive
ployees; and lower drug costs by allowing Medicare to negotiate for lower prices, permitting up insurance rates to outrageous levels and ultimately drive up the number of uninsured….
importation of safe medicines from other developed countries, creating a generic pathway for This emergency demands medical liability reform. (39)
biologic drugs, and increasing use of generics in public programs. (11)
We must develop new ways to support individuals, not just institutions, so that older Ameri-
We will end health insurance discrimination against contraception and provide compassionate cans can have a real choice whether to stay in their homes…. (40)
care to rape victims. We will never put ideology above women’s health. (13)
…the Drug Enforcement Administration ban on use of controlled substances for physician-
assisted suicide should be restored. (40)
No health care professional – doctor, nurse, or pharmacist – or organization should ever be
required to perform, provide for, or refer for a health care service against their conscience for
any reason…. (40)
Illegal We cannot continue to allow people to enter the United States undetected, undocumented, Border security is essential to national security….We simply must be able to track who is
Immigra- and unchecked. The American people are a welcoming and generous people, but those who entering and leaving our country. (3)
tion enter our country’s borders illegally, and those who employ them, disrespect the rule of the
Our commitment to the rule of law means smarter enforcement at the workplace, against
law. We need to secure our borders, and support additional personnel, infrastructure, and
illegal workers and lawbreaking employers alike, along with those who practice identity theft
technology on the border and at our ports of entry. We need additional Customs and Border
and traffic in fraudulent documents. … we must empower employers so they can know with
Protection agents equipped with better technology and real-time intelligence…we need to
confidence that those they hire are permitted to work. That means that the E-Verify system
crack down on employers who hire undocumented immigrants….We realize that employers
– which is an internet-based system that verifies the employment authorization and identity
need a method to verify whether their employees are legally eligible to work in the United
of employees – must be reauthorized…. (3)
States, and we will ensure that our system is accurate, fair to legal workers, safeguards people’s
privacy, and cannot be used to discriminate against workers. (45) The rule of law means guaranteeing to law enforcement the tools and coordination to deport
criminal aliens without delay – and correcting court decisions that have made deportation so
We support a system that requires undocumented immigrants who are in good standing to
difficult. It means enforcing the law against those who overstay their visas, rather than letting
pay a fine, pay taxes, learn English, and go to the back of the line for the opportunity to be-
millions flout the generosity that gave them temporary entry. It means imposing maximum
come citizens…. (45)
penalties on those who smuggle illegal aliens into the U.S., both for their lawbreaking and for
their cruel exploitation…. (3)
We oppose amnesty…. (3)The Issues Party Platforms
Issue Democrat Republican
Israel For more than three decades, Israelis, Palestinians, Arab leaders, and the rest of the world Israel is a vigorous democracy, unique in the Middle East. We reaffirm America’s commitment
and the have looked to America to lead the effort to build the road to a secure and lasting peace. Our to Israel’s security and will ensure that Israel maintains a qualitative edge in military technol-
Middle starting point must always be our special relationship with Israel, grounded in shared interests ogy over any potential adversaries. Israel must have secure, defensible borders and we support
and shared values, and a clear, strong, fundamental commitment to the security of Israel, our its right to exist as a Jewish state able to defend itself against homicide bombings, rocket and
East strongest ally in the region and its only established democracy….We support the implemen- mortar fire, and other attacks against its people. We support the vision of two democratic
tation of the memorandum of understanding that pledges $30 billion in assistance to Israel states living in peace and security: Israel, with Jerusalem as its capital, and Palestine. For that
over the next decade to enhance and ensure its security. (38) to become a reality, the Palestinian people must support leaders who reject terror, embrace
the institutions and ethos of democracy, and respect the rule of law. (12)
It is in the best interests of all parties, including the United States, that we take an active role
to help secure a lasting settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict with a democratic, viable
Palestinian state dedicated to living in peace and security side by side with the Jewish State
of Israel . . . Jerusalem is and will remain the capital of Israel. The parties have agreed that
Jerusalem is a matter for final status negotiations. It should remain an undivided city acces-
sible to people of all faiths. (39)
“I know of no safe depository of the ultimate powers of the society but the people themselves;
and if we think them not enlightened enough to exercise their control with a wholesome
discretion, the remedy is not to take it from them, but to inform their discretion by education.”
—Thomas Jefferson, U.S. President, Chief Author, Declaration of Independence
Housing We will ensure that the foreclosure prevention program enacted by Congress is implemented Homeownership remains key to creating an opportunity society. We support timely and care-
quickly and effectively…We will work to reform bankruptcy laws to restore balance between fully targeted aid to those hurt by the housing crisis so that affected individuals can have a
lender and homeowner rights….we will crack down on fraudulent brokers and lenders and chance to trade a burdensome mortgage for a manageable loan that reflects their home’s
invest in financial literacy. We will pass a Homebuyers Bill of Rights, which will include estab- market value. At the same time, government action must not implicitly encourage anyone to
lishing new lending standards to ensure that loans are affordable and fair, provide adequate borrow more than they can afford to repay. We support energetic federal investigation and,
remedies to make sure the standards are met, and ensure that homeowners have accurate and where appropriate, prosecution of criminal wrongdoing in the mortgage industry and invest-
complete information about their mortgage options. We will support affordable rental hous- ment sector. We do not support government bailouts of private institutions. (28)
ing…We will implement the newly created Affordable Housing Trust Fund to ensure that it
Republican policy aims to make owning a home more accessible through enforcement of open
can start to support the development and preservation of affordable housing in mixed-income
housing laws, voucher programs, urban homesteading and – what is most important – a
neighborhoods throughout the country, restore cuts to public housing operating subsidies,
strong economy with low interest rates. Because affordable housing is in the national inter-
and fully fund the Community Development Block Grant program…We will work to end
est, any simplified tax system should continue to encourage homeownership, recognizing the
housing discrimination and to ensure equal housing opportunity. We will combat homeless-
tremendous social value that the home mortgage interest deduction has had for decades. In
ness and target homelessness among veterans in particular by expanding proven programs
addition, sound housing policy should recognize the needs of renters so that apartments and
and launching innovative preventive services. (25)
multi-family homes remain important components of the housing stock. (28)
…We’ll reform our bankruptcy laws to give Americans in debt a second chance. If people can
demonstrate that they went bankrupt because of medical expenses, they will be able to relieve
that debt and get back on their feet. (25-26)
Stem Cell- Research should be based on science, not ideology…We need to invest in biomedical re- We support federal investment in basic and applied biomedical research. This commitment
Research search and stem cell research, so that we are at the leading edge of prevention and treatment. will maintain America’s global competitiveness, advance innovative science that can lead to
This includes adequate funding for research into diseases such as heart disease, Alzheimer’s medical breakthroughs, and turn the tide against diseases affecting millions of Americans –
disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, breast cancer, diabetes, autism and other com- diseases that account for the majority of our health care costs. (40)
mon and rare diseases, and disorders. We will increase funding to the National Institutes of
Taxpayer-funded medical research must be based on sound science, with a focus on both
Health, the National Science Foundation, and the National Cancer Institutes. (12)
prevention and treatment, and in accordance with the humane ethics of the Hippocratic Oath.
We will lift the current Administration’s ban on using federal funding for embryonic stem In that regard, we call for a major expansion of support for the stem-cell research that now
cells–cells that would have otherwise been discarded and lost forever–for research that could shows amazing promise and offers the greatest hope for scores of diseases – with adult stem
save lives. (21) cells, umbilical cord blood, and cells reprogrammed into pluripotent stem cells – without the
destruction of embryonic human life. We call for a ban on human cloning and for a ban on the
creation of or experimentation on human embryos for research purposes. (40)Party Platforms
Why Should Christians Vote? By Dwayne Hastings
Christians should vote because Jesus John Adams, our nation’s second president, Christians should vote because
tells us in the Bible to be a part of the wrote to his wife Abigail in 1775: “It is Religion the innocent, the indigent, and the
process, not apart from it. and Morality alone which can establish the unborn need a defender.
Jesus commands His followers to involve principles upon which freedom can freely stand. A “He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good;
themselves in the culture as “salt” and “light” — patriot must be a religious man.” and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do
bearing the purifying and enlightening force of justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with
Scripture—to impact society for good and for God Christians should vote because thy God?” (Micah 6:8). We are standing squarely
(Matt. 5:13-16). Informed Christians base their Jesus urged His followers to on Scripture when we support candidates who
views, and thus their electoral preferences, on the render unto Caesar what was advocate public policy that protects innocent
wisdom they gain from study of God’s Word and Caesar’s (Luke 20:19-26). human life, cares for the oppressed, and provides
prayer. It is a Christian’s obligation to offer up a Voting is a means by which all citizens, includ- equal justice for the accused.
Bible-based agenda for the common good. ing Christians, exercise their civic responsibilities
under the rights guaranteed in a democracy. In Christians should vote because as
Christians should vote because doing so, Christians are acting in obedience to the we exercise our civic right we have
our liberties were secured by the Lord’s command. While as Americans we do not the opportunity to advocate policy
blood of our forbearers in faith early have an emperor to whom civic homage is due, we positions that signal our faith in the
in our nation’s history and have been do have a Constitution within which is made clear providential care of God.
preserved by the vigilance of brave men our right to have a participatory republic. For a We exhibit our trust in God as we support
and women who time and time again Christian to sit on his hands during an election is candidates whose public policy positions may
have defended our freedoms. an unconscionable breach of Christ’s command. not directly benefit us but offer relief to others in
When we exercise our right to vote, we greater need. “Set your affection on things above,
acknowledge our gratefulness for the sacrifice of Christians should vote because not on things on the earth” (Col. 3:2).
those who have gone before us. Contemporary Christ compels us to voice our Our positions on the issues may run counter
Christians’ lack of involvement in the political biblically derived convictions at to the whims of the population at large as we em-
process weakens our voice and threatens to erode the ballot box, as well as through the phasize policies that address the needs of others,
our right to bring biblically based views into the mailbox and atop the soapbox. placing our own interests subservient to the public
policy arena. “For so is the will of God, that with well doing good. Since our neighbors may well take notice of
ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish our selflessness, we are witnessing to our abiding
men” (1 Pet. 2:15). As Christians, we faith in God.
should be informed voters, not
voting a “party line” or simply in Christians should vote because
accordance with another’s pre- as we involve ourselves in the
scribed agenda. Christians are electoral and public policy process,
to look beyond the campaign we pray for our leaders.
rhetoric and artful posturing Because Jesus has charged us to carry our
to uncover the genuine policy faith into the public square, we bear a neces-
positions of the candidates. sary obligation to both pray for our leaders and
plead for policy that is undergirded by scriptural
From the board room to the ballot principles. “I urge, then, first of all, that requests,
box, every Christian has unique oppor- prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made
tunities to voice his faith-based convic- for everyone—for kings and all those in authority,
tions and advocate positions that signal that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all
his faith in the providential care of God. godliness and holiness” (1 Tim. 2:1-2).You can also read
