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Michael Bostic's avatar

This is the first I'm hearing of her and no I don't think there is anyone out there today like her. And yes, we need to look out after Social Security now more than ever. Let's not forget, SS can never run out of money no matter what politician or an economist says. There are people in favor of privatizing it and that would be a disaster for working class Americans. Safety nets need protection again now more than ever and that includes unemployment insurance. A must article here.

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Voxi Heinrich Amavilah's avatar

"I had just heard of Frances Perkins when working with policy experts during the pandemic. It helped me understand why the programs are the way they are. Political compromises can cast a long shadow—ones to throw sunshine on. ... Frances Perkin is awe-inspiring had incredible dedication."

BTW, did she and Sadie T.M. Alexander knew one another?

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Roy More's avatar

Awesome article. The citations pulled from the book are insightful and deja vu at the same time in comparing to today's communication and political environment. Change is always hard. Putting people first though is a good starting point. IMO.

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Thomas L. Hutcheson's avatar

Of course it was not Perkins's fault, but what a shame SS, UI were not funded with a VAT. I think (who can be sure) that it would have been easier to increase VAT rates to make the programs more generous over time than increases in the payroll tax.

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Jeoffry Gordon, MD, MPH's avatar

Inspiring. This is just what Joe Biden needs - a younger person with vision. Where's Kamala Harris when we need her? Elizabeth Warren tried but was cut off at the pass by the old guard. Ugh!

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Peter Paul Santa Ana's avatar

I agree political compromise must be part of the democratic process to work. Unfortunately, the perspectives people brought and bring to the table, i.e., Dixiecrats, contemporary republicans and balance the budget hawks, etc., possessed and continue to pose the worst of what the United States could and can be; for one United. We need more savvy politicians steeped in MMT knowledge, Constitution focused and community/people minded to lead efforts to realize more useful compromise. I know...patience. Thank you always Claudia!

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Hal's avatar

Thanks for the informative historical refresher. I worked within the Uniemployment Insurance Program at both state and federal levels and to watch the "old" program, basically still in place, perform during the pandemic, was truly amazing.

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David's avatar

I just gave my younger daughter a copy of The Woman Behind the New Deal about a week ago...

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Claudia Sahm's avatar

It's very well done. I hope she enjoys it.

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Marianne O, CFA's avatar

Thank you Claudia for highlight the work of Perkins. It would have been lost if people did not mention it. I could not believe impeachment because of too many immigrants?? Love for you to highlight more female economists and policy makers! Thank you!

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