A New Deal For The Working Class: Emily Berge’s Progressive Vision For Wisconsin And Beyond

(l-->r) Eau Claire City Council President Emily Berge, US Rep. Derrick Van Orden, Blue Dog congressional candidate Rebecca Cooke

Emily Berge is running for Congress in the western Wisconsin congressional district held by Trump ally Derrick Van Orden and she’s running on a bold progressive platform that stands in stark contrast to both the Republican incumbent and the conservative Democrat challenging her in the primary. In this guest post, she lays out why she supports the Patriotic Millionaires and how their agenda— fair taxes, a living wage, and getting money out of politics— aligns with her vision for economic justice, democratic reform and a future where government works for everyone, not just the wealthy few. As you may recall, she was one of the first candidates endorsed by Blue America this cycle. If you click on the endorsement graphic, you can contribute to her campaign:

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Taking On the Corporate Machine—From Inside the Democratic Party

-by Emily Berge

I had never heard of the Patriotic Millionaires before I started running for Congress in Wisconsin’s 3rd District. But the more I learn about what they stand for, the more impressed I am. Their platform puts into words not only the problems that I feel we have in our nation, but also offers solutions to make our country a place where all can thrive regardless of how much they have in the bank.

The Patriotic Millionaires’ call for taxing the rich, ensuring a living wage for all, and getting money out of politics isn't just good policy, it's a roadmap to stabilize our nation and an opportunity to restore the promise of the American Dream. For all.

The idea that the wealthiest among us should contribute their fair share to society is not radical; it is fundamental to a just and equitable nation. The Patriotic Millionaires understand that when the rich pay their taxes— like we all do— we can invest in the public goods that benefit everyone by fixing crumbling infrastructure, underfunded schools, and inadequate healthcare systems.

My own priorities wholeheartedly support this platform. We must close tax loopholes that disproportionately benefit the wealthy and enact progressive tax reforms that ensure those who have gained the most from our economic system contribute fairly to its upkeep. It's about recognizing that a strong economy is built on a strong foundation, and that foundation requires robust public investment. When we properly fund our public services, we create opportunities for ALL people, fostering economic growth and reducing the disparities that lead to instability.

A living wage is more than just a paycheck; it's about dignity, economic security, and the ability for every American to participate fully in our society. The Patriotic Millionaires advocate for policies that ensure every worker earns enough to meet their basic needs and live with respect.                                             

My platform strongly supports a national living wage. This means raising the minimum wage to a level that reflects the true cost of living in today's economy. It also means ensuring that all workers have the right to organize and collectively bargain for better wages and working conditions. When people earn a living wage, they have more disposable income, which stimulates local economies and reduces reliance on public assistance. This leads to a more stable workforce and stronger communities.

Perhaps the most crucial pillar of the Patriotic Millionaires' platform, and one that resonates deeply with my own beliefs, is the urgent need to get big money out of politics. When campaigns are funded by wealthy donors and special interests, the voices of everyday citizens are drowned out. This erodes public trust, leads to policies that favor the powerful, and ultimately undermines our democracy.

My commitment to campaign finance reform is unwavering. I advocate for policies such as publicly financed elections, which would empower ordinary citizens to run for office without relying on wealthy donors. I support overturning Citizens United and strengthening regulations on Super PACs and dark money groups. It is imperative that we increase transparency in campaign finance so that voters know who is funding political campaigns and what their interests are. When our elected officials are accountable to the people, not to corporate donors, we can enact policies that truly serve the public good. 

These policies are not just isolated proposals, they are interconnected components of a comprehensive roadmap to stabilize our country. When we tax the rich fairly, we generate the revenue needed to invest in our communities and ensure that everyone has a chance to succeed. When we guarantee a living wage, we boost economic activity, reduce poverty, and strengthen the working class. And when we get money out of politics, we empower ordinary citizens and ensure that our government is truly representative of the people it serves.