The U.S. needs political parties that are responsive to the needs of constituents. We need change, and we need more people like India Walton running for office.
The Public Purpose
The Graduate Journal of American University's School of Public Affairs
Sam Murray
Sam Murray is currently working as a pathways intern for the FDA and is a second-year Master of Political Science student. He served as a Columnist at the Public Purpose Journal last year and is continuing through the 2021-2022 academic year. His research and interest areas are primarily on energy and the environment, policing, and labor policy reforms. When taking a break from work and writing, he enjoys hiking, running, rock climbing, and snowboarding.
The Myth of the “Labor Shortage”
Amid COVID-19’s employment disruption, America does not have a labor shortage. We have a shortage of jobs that treat workers like people with dignity.
Undocumented Immigrants Deserve Better Policies
The immigration debate should be reframed to centralize empathy, compassion, and caring for those escaping poor living conditions or threats of violence.
Fighting the War on Drugs: How Presidential Administrations Produce Distinct Policing Regimes
The United States government embarked on a gradually escalating offensive against individual consumers, distributors, and manufacturers of illicit substances well before President Nixon’s famous national declaration of a “war on drugs.” This critical case analysis argues that presidential politics, rhetoric, and legislative strategies directly shape the type of policing regimes present during each distinct era of governance under the Nixon, Reagan, Obama, and Trump administrations.
The Need for a Bold Infrastructure Redevelopment Plan
The U.S. has neglected necessary infrastructure from roadways to water systems and the internet; all are vital to the daily functions of society.
Building Back America’s Labor Unions
Labor unions’ membership as a percentage of the workforce has declined by about half since 1983. Unions need to recover and come back stronger than ever.
The Case for Cancelling Student Debt
The student debt crisis affects nearly one in five adults. The U.S. must act now to alleviate this burden as a direct form of stimulus to millions of American.
The Biden Presidency, a Potential for Transformational Leadership
Biden has an opportunity to be a transformational leader. It is up to him to act, and to give the American people the confident leadership we desperately need.
America’s Dangerous Obsession With Abstractions of Freedom
America’s deep fascination with the abstraction of freedom impedes our ability to govern a fair and just society for all.
Congress Needs to Pass a Substantive Economic Stimulus Package
The U.S. government has failed, not only to address the rapid spread of COVID-19, but to provide a social safety net for all Americans.
COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Must Be Equitable and Cooperative
Without an international approach, COVID-19 may shrink to national endemics in developing nations — widening inequality between high- and low-income nations.
We May Be on the Cusp of Substantive Drug Policy Reform
Through drug policy reform, the Biden Administration can expand social services and addiction resources, paired with the eventual abolition of the war on drugs.