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For my .02,
1) I'm hoping this next year will produce massive reform at the state & local levels...here in WA state we don't have a state income tax (relying in large part on sales taxes and user fees), and our out-of-control proposition system needs to be converted to some sort of revenue-neutral or paygo (if its a prop to cut taxes, then what named programs will be axed; if its a prop for a new program, what taxes will be raised and by how much?). WA is just another CA, and I'm actually very much looking forward to seeing real change.
2) For the targets of federal stimulus, I'm hoping for
2A)money for mass transit and green collar jobs. Check out these two links that to me are just a taste of what could be: http://www.infrastructurist.co... and http://thetransportpolitic.com...
2B)near full subsidies for higher education/technical schools. The case for this is unassailable...in short, by wiping out existing student loans, and converting to virtually free education, you
-have a form of targeted deleveraging which enables key demographics to redirect debt payments towards purchasing big ticket items
-provide a timely means for those unemployed/underemployed to use the downturn to improve their skills (read: lower unemployment going into the next election cycle)
-rescue a university system that some say is on the verge of collapse
-looking forward, make America competitive for the 21st century when education is a key requirement for success, and when many other developed countries already offer generous degrees of free education.
I'm actually very positive about where we are at with the health care bill-my hammer and anvil scenario is squeezing Senate Dems-but I'm confused by the 2013 start date for the public option. Does this mean that health care reform-which is essential in improving the economy-will not happen for basically another four years? Will a hard fought bill now get neutered in subsequent years, before the public option ever gets implemented (in effect, will it be stillborn?)How does that impact the economy?
Whatever the case, looks like there are a lot of twists and turns up ahead...hold on to your seats...no one ever said this was going to be dull!