TOPICS
TOPICS
Where McCain, Obama stand on key federal issues
When it comes to government reform, the agendas of Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama and GOP rival John McCain have a few things in common. Both candidates want to make government more transparent, find and eliminate federal programs that aren't working, and set an example for the rest of the country by building a federal fleet of fuel-efficient vehicles.
But in other areas such as collective bargaining, the candidates differ significantly. We combed through their campaign Web sites, speeches, vote records, and responses to questions from union officials and Government Executive reporters Robert Brodsky and Elizabeth Newell, and compiled a summary of where each stands on issues of importance to government workers. We intend to update it as we come across other interesting information.
To view the chart, click here.
To view our full special report on Campaign 2008, click here.
COMMENTS
- There are some really stupid comments above and disappointment that people would vote for Democrats. Yes, I'm MUCH MUCH MU CH better off now than seven yrs ago. I take responsibility and have have been very successful even though I have no degree and no husband. I made it on my own - nice house, car, and a booming 401K (because I was responsible and got out of the market in 2001). At 71, I still work, receive two retirements, attend church, and believe in moral values. I'm so thankful I turned Republican in 1993 by a very good friend who made me "see the light". Do you want to be taxed to the hilt by Democrats and your taxes given to people who are lazy and expect the government to take care of them and health care that will break the bank. That's what the Democrats are proposing. Think about it!!!! Norma Goodwin Posted September 23, 2008 2:56 PM
- Thank goodness McCain wants to clean out this web of corruption and implement accountability. Like how he did with the savings and loans debacle back in the day. Hoo boy, that was a good time. The public has been demanding this for years and John is listening to his lobbyists and handlers. These guys even make Karl Rove cringe. For those CS that want to maintain the status quo better find another career. Although you won't be able to replicate your income on the outside cause you'll be rolling in a big pile of dough when you get your first no-bid contract. Nad Rettek Posted September 22, 2008 1:50 PM
- Finally, Jerry Boothe hit it on the head. If you have the Legislative Branch (Congress) of one party, you should have the Executive Branch (President) of another for the balance. We could be that situation for another 2 years, depending who is elected. Look what happened when both branches were of the same party. Voters should remember that ALL the candidates make promises during the campaigns although I have seen more negative ads than issue resolution ads since each party has had their convention. If you read the websites of the candidates, it's more of the same - promises and great ideas. How are they going to get them enacted and the bigger question, how will they fund them? We are certainly in a financial mess both domestically and internationally. I also favor no more golden parachutes to these execs whose companies’ tank. The money should be returned to the workers and stockholders. I have yet to meet anyone worth that big of a salary. My DCAA always raises the issue of excessive executive compensation for government contractors. Government oversight should be reinstated. A transparent government would go a long way to ensure we federal employees have support for doing our jobs. We didn’t have nearly as many or as excessive problems when they were functioning. Bottom line: It will be interesting to watch what happens, whoever gets in the White House. SRW Posted September 22, 2008 12:49 PM
