In recent days, there have been national and local indications that individual office-holders and candidates are truly advancing a progressive agenda. This is most refreshing because, for too long, the progressive banner has been carried by a few pundits, such as Paul Krugman, some blogs, and a couple of reliable stand-bys in Congress. Three encouraging developments in the political arena are:<\/p>\n
One: President Obama’s new attitude<\/strong><\/p>\n President Obama\u2019s speech on jobs was encouraging and his actions following the speech have given true reason for optimism. First, he has drawn a line in the sand with regard to the need for increased tax revenues. He has strengthened his commitment to ensuring that the wealthy pay their fair share of taxes, and he has cleverly called the revision the Buffett Plan. Second, he has said that he will veto any debt reduction bill that does not include the Buffet Plan. He\u2019s using the bully pulpit, and it\u2019s already working. In a speech in Cincinnati on September 19, House Speaker John Boehner seemed on the ropes. He may be conservative, but he\u2019s not dumb. The framing is on the side of progressives, and Boeher\u2019s complaining about class warfare attacking the wealthy is about as effective as a national referendum to declare the Yankees \u201cthe people\u2019s team.\u201d<\/p>\n Let\u2019s give President Obama credit for dealing himself a strong hand and playing it. However, this will be a long drawn-out struggle. It\u2019s doubtful that the House will pass any tax increases, meaning that the president won\u2019t have any bill to veto. However, with 71% of Americans supporting tax increases as part of a deficit reduction plan, 2012 could be a good year for Democrats \u2013 if the Democrats have a spine and stand up for progressive policies.<\/p>\n