We must build on what we've started

The American people yearn for progress on kitchen table issues that have defined presidential elections since the dawn of our nation. These seemingly mundane issues are just the opposite; they concentrate on the heart of our fundamental liberties and the supplemental social contract most famously championed by President Franklin Roosevelt.

We can discover agreement on expanding the social contract, which was practically applied as early as the 16th Century, to include the access to health care. We benefit from the military, post offices, public roads and police/fire departments which contribute to our national sovereignty, defense and welfare. In fact, America has already found agreement on broadening original Lockean and Rooseveltian ideals.

The Affordable Care Act would have been a figment of our imagination without Vice President Biden's incredible ability to whip 60 Senate votes and 219 House votes in order to gain President Obama's signature for passage.

This included protections for those with pre-existing conditions as well as massive investments in research and cures. In addition, Sen. Bernie Sanders introduced an $11 million investment into community health centers within that bill. It is also worth noting that the act enabled every American to receive free vaccines. The importance of this provision is clear with the emergence of the 2019 novel coronavirus. We must build on what we have, with a public option, while increasing funding for Sanders' community health centers. We do not need to throw it all away. This should be the topic of discussion in order to touch the heart and mind of every citizen. So, when they say there are no prospects, for a revival of the American Dream and political unity, look to history's verdict and then trudge forward with the profound work of the people.

Henry J.H. Wilson

Barrington