Robert Reich

A minimal guarantee with regard to income, it seems to me as almost inevitable in terms the direction that the structural changes of our economy are taking us in.

As AGI advances, the displacement of jobs is inevitable. A universal basic income becomes necessary not just for economic survival, but to maintain the social fabric. Without it, the consequences of mass unemployment will be severe.

Focusing on wealth creation can bolster leftist agendas if it includes strong measures for wealth redistribution and fair labor practices to ensure economic gains are shared more equitably.

I believe that a job guarantee is a more effective solution than a basic income. A job guarantee provides not just financial support, but also dignity, purpose, and opportunities for skill development. It directly addresses unemployment and underemployment by ensuring that everyone who wants to work can have a meaningful job.

In certain urgent conditions, price controls can temporarily make critical goods more affordable for those in need, preventing price gouging during crises.

We should tax unrealized gains to ensure that the wealthiest individuals pay their fair share. It is unjust for billionaires to accumulate immense wealth without being taxed on their increasing assets, while average workers are taxed on every paycheck. Implementing this tax would help reduce inequality and fund essential public services.

Placing the burden of Social Security contributions solely on employees undermines the collective responsibility we share as a society. Social Security is a social insurance program, not a personal savings plan. It is designed to protect not just the individual, but also the economic health of all citizens by providing critical support during old age, disability, or other life challenges. Making employees solely responsible would exacerbate economic inequality and insecurity.