Business Forward conducted a Solutions 2020 briefing with Congressman Seth Moulton on Friday, June 14, 2019. This is our seventh briefing in the Solutions 2020 series.
Congressman Seth Moulton focused on the future of trade, and the importance of higher education and building infrastructure. Business leaders shared their comments, suggestions, and questions on issues ranging from health care, climate change, and immigration.
In addition, Moulton emphasized the need for effective leadership and how his experiences bringing diverse groups of people together to unite over shared goals, would serve as an asset when leading the country and American people.
Future of Higher Education
Congressman Seth Moulton discussed his record as an economic capitalist and explained his support for an education system that encourages vocational and skills training in order to promote accessible and affordable education for all American people, and foster careers that meet the automated revolution.
“It’s time for an education system that meets the automated revolution with more focus on skills training, more slots for vocational schools, and more respect for people that choose that line of work. Also, ensuring that college is accessible and affordable to all people.”
The Future of Trade
In regards to trade, Congressman Moulton explained the necessity of accepting our current trade situation, focusing on free and fair trade at home rather than trying to change other countries economic models and trade behaviors.
“It’s our job in the United States to ensure free and fair trade so that any trade agreement we sign helps level the playing field for American businesses and consumers.”
Climate Change
Margaret Dabney, from New York, and Veronique Bishop, from Virginia, asked Congressman Moulton about his position on using fiscal policy to attack climate change, and what alternative sustainable and renewable energy sources exist.
Moulton recognizes climate change as an imminent concern and priority in his political agenda, and discussed the need to invest in green technology. As President, Moulton would call for bipartisan solutions that address climate change as a business opportunity and national security threat, in order to gain Republican support and make progress on the issue.
“We’re not going to make any wholesale changes in the United States to address climate change or adapt our economy unless they are bipartisan [solutions].”
Infrastructure
Business leaders questioned Moulton on his infrastructure plan and asked how he would bring his learnings from his home district of Massachusetts to the White House.
Congressman Moulton shared his perspective on infrastructure as an investment in the next generation. He explains that by ensuring access to broadband and transportation, economic growth may be maintained, and expedited.
“The primary lesson I’ve learned is that we need to do two things to address the infrastructure crisis in America: (1) we need to invest more money infrastructure, and (2) we need to invest in modern infrastructure.”
Health Care Competition
John Delibos, owner of Concepts in Design, briefed Congressman Moulton on the expenses of private health insurance as a private business owner in comparison to Medicare, Medicaid, and corporate health care plans. He asked for Moulton’s stance on the matter.
Congressman Moulton acknowledged the importance of competition in the health care industry, and emphasized the need for equitable access to health care services and treatment for all Americans. Moulton referred to his experience with VA health care, and explained how public health care systems could benefit from competing against private insurers, in order to provide top-rated care for all Americans.
“We need a public option that competes with private health care plans. Drive down prescription drug costs and premiums, and ensure that Americans can get the best health care possible.”
Immigration
Alan Keith, from Massachusetts, asked Moulton what recommendations he would propose for immigration reform.
Congressman Moulton acknowledges an immigration crisis in our country and reflected on his experiences visiting the United States-Mexico border. As President, Moulton would implement a fundamental reform program, creating a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers. He explained how this would decrease our budget deficit, support our economy, and promote national security.
“This is a place where national security and foreign aid come together and address for many people with domestic concerns. We have got to provide targeted aid to Central America to stop the violence that’s causing so many people to flee.”