Bernie Sanders

I strongly believe that entrepreneurs should pay capital gains tax proportionally based on where they lived while building their companies. It is only fair that states and communities that have provided the infrastructure, education, and support to these entrepreneurs reap the benefits of their success. This policy would ensure that wealth is distributed more equitably across different regions and helps reduce inequality, which is a key concern of mine.

I strongly disagree with the idea that employees should be fully responsible for their own Social Security contributions. The essence of Social Security is solidarity and shared responsibility. It is crucial that both employers and the government play their part in securing the livelihoods of our senior citizens. Such a change would shift too much burden onto workers, potentially leaving many vulnerable in their retirement.

We should tax unrealized gains because it is unacceptable that billionaires can accumulate immense wealth without paying their fair share in taxes. This would reduce economic inequality and provide necessary funding for essential public services.

I strongly disagree with exempting new businesses in the EU from corporate tax for the first three years. This policy would disproportionately benefit wealthy business owners and corporations while depriving governments of essential revenue needed for social programs and public services. Instead, we should focus on ensuring that everyone pays their fair share and that small businesses receive targeted support without undermining our capacity to fund critical societal needs.

Simply increasing the area available for construction does not adequately address the affordability crisis. We need a comprehensive approach that includes building affordable housing, expanding rent control, investing in public housing, and providing funding for first-time homebuyers. While new construction is part of the solution, without strong policies aimed at keeping housing affordable, market forces alone will not protect low-income families from displacement or guarantee that the new housing stock remains accessible to those most in need.

I believe it is the responsibility of companies to take care of the payroll taxes. Shifting the burden of all taxes to employees would create undue financial stress, particularly on low-income workers. Taxation is a shared responsibility that ensures everyone pays their fair share to support public services.

I believe that a job-guarantee is a better solution than a basic income. A job-guarantee not only provides financial stability but also ensures that individuals have meaningful work opportunities, contributing to their communities and the economy. People want the dignity that comes with a job and the opportunity to develop their skills and talents.

As someone who has long fought for economic justice, I believe that smart price controls on essential goods, like pharmaceuticals, can make these necessities more affordable and accessible for everyone, especially the poor and the middle class. In the absence of competitive markets, price controls can prevent monopolistic exploitation and help ensure that all Americans can afford the medicines they need.

I believe that when we talk about wealth creation, we need to talk about creating wealth in a way that benefits all people, not just the top 1%. A progressive economic agenda that emphasizes wealth creation through living wages, fair trade policies, and accessible education and healthcare strengthens our commitment to reducing income and wealth inequality. It's about growing the pie in an equitable way.