I am grateful to live in a country that not only supports, but encourages, young people like me to get an education, take risks, follow their dreams, and even create our own businesses.
However, I worry that our leaders in Washington have lost sight of what is really important to those in my generation. As our elected officials return home to celebrate Independence Day with family and friends, too many millennials are returning home to live with their parents instead of entering the work force and beginning their careers.
A recent report showed that 14.5% of Americans younger than 25, who are ready to go to work, are currently unemployed.
We need Washington to make the tough decisions that will move our economy forward and help young people - who are ready and willing to work - find a decent-paying job. Washington cannot create jobs – but they can create a pro-growth environment.
Benjamin Franklin described the need for such compromises well at the Constitutional Convention debate in 1787 when he said:
“When a broad table is to be made, and the edges of planks do not fit, the artist takes a little from both, and makes a good joint. In like manner, here, both sides must part from some of their demands, in order that they may join in some accommodating proposition.”
My hope is the White House and the Congress will channel some of the artistry of our Founding Fathers, and find a way to join together to create policies that can get our economy moving again, making it easier for young people to find jobs and start businesses.
Washington’s addiction to gridlock has stalled progress on pro-growth policies, such as reforming our complicated tax code and opening new markets for American-made goods.
Congress can quickly help small businesses begin to grow by reforming our tax code. Lower, flatter rates will help businesses cut costs and hire more workers, and simplified tax returns will give them more time to dedicate to growing their businesses. The same applies for individual tax reform as well.
Opening up more markets around the globe to help businesses find more customers will also help. Our jobs are at stake and the gridlock should end.
I am proud to be an American, thankful for my education, and grateful to live in a society where “we the people” can choose those who represent our interests in Washington. For the sake of our economy and the prosperity of future generations, I hope those leaders will take action soon.
Nathan Swift