Sen. Sanders to Propose Massive Jobs Program

Jobs, Skills and Training

Amid fears of job losses due to tech developments, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) will propose a measure that would give a government job "to everyone who wants or needs one."  The jobs reportedly would feature health benefits and at least a $15/hour wage.  Few other details are currently available, including what jobs the potentially millions of beneficiaries would perform.  In a recent survey, the left-leaning think tank Data for Progress found broad support for the concept, even though it made clear that the measure would include a hefty tax increase, asking: “Democrats in Congress are proposing a bill which would guarantee a job to every American adult, with the government providing jobs for people who can’t find employment in the private sector.  This would be paid for by a 5 percent income tax increase on those making over $200,000 per year. Would you be for or against this policy?"  The results showed 52 percent in favor, 29 percent opposed, and 19 percent with no opinion.  David Shor, a senior data scientist at Civis Analytics, said, "Even with explicit partisan framing and the inclusion of revenue in the wording, this is one of the most popular issues we’ve ever polled."  The proposal has already been backed by Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Cory Booker (D-NJ).