Formation of Colorado Democratic Think Tank Announced
State Rep. Peggy Kerns, State Rep. Doug Friednash and Colorado Democratic Leadership Council Executive Vice President Jim Gibson announced formation of a new Democratic think tank housed in the Colorado DLC state chapter. In addition, a group of Democratic legislators have signed off on the "New Democrat Declaration" which represents the values and principles upon which the think tank's initiatives will be based.
The legislators and think tank will be exploring initiatives on teen pregnancy, reinventing government, youth apprenticeship, health care reform, promoting individual responsibility, rebuilding communities, innovative crime solutions, middle-class tax relief, welfare reform, infrastructure, reforming employment/training programs, developing a small business agenda and boosting international trade.
Building on the themes from her opening speech of the legislative session, Kerns said, "Democrats must take the lead on the important value issues - inclusion, tolerance, personal responsibility and community." Focusing on economic opportunity, Friednash said, "I look forward to the DLC generating ideas that will boost the stagnating incomes of the middle-class."
Copies of the New Democrat Declaration and a list of participating legislators will be available at the news conference.
Kerns is House Minority Leader and co-chairperson of the Colorado DLC, along with Gov. Roy Romer. The DLC is a group of "New Democrat" elected officials and activists committed to changing the message and agenda of the Democratic Party. The think tank will develop position papers, conduct public policy forums and produce media commentaries.
WHEN:
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Thursday, March 23 at 1:00 PM
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WHERE:
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State Capitol News Conference Room (#326)
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CONTACT:
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