6 things democrats could investigate if they win in 2026 – As the 2026 election approaches, Democrats are gearing up to take on a slew of pressing issues that have haunted the nation for years. With a potential sweep of the midterms on the horizon, now is the perfect time for the party to get to the bottom of some of the most pressing questions facing America.
From the implications of the Trump-approved nuclear deal for Saudi Arabia to the state of the US healthcare system, there’s no shortage of critical topics that require some tough investigative journalism. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at six key areas that Democrats should prioritize when they take the reins in 2026.
Democratic Review of the Ongoing COVID-19 Pandemic Response
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has tested the United States’ public health infrastructure, and a comprehensive review of the current response is necessary to identify areas of improvement and best practices. This review should assess the effectiveness of the current vaccination distributions, contact tracing efforts, and public health messaging to inform decision-making and hold the administration accountable for its response.
Designing a Comprehensive Framework for Evaluating the Effectiveness of the Current Pandemic Response
A well-designed framework for evaluating the effectiveness of the current pandemic response should include metrics for judging the success of vaccination distributions, contact tracing efforts, and public health messaging. This framework should consider multiple indicators, such as vaccination rates, disease transmission rates, hospitalization rates, and death rates, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the pandemic’s impact. The framework can also include metrics for assessing the equity of vaccine distribution, such as the proportion of vaccines administered to vulnerable populations.
- Utilize data from reputable sources, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME), to inform the framework.
- Develop a standardized set of metrics and indicators to ensure comparability across different regions and time periods.
- Foster collaboration between public health officials, healthcare providers, and data analysts to ensure the framework is grounded in scientific evidence and real-world experience.
- Regularly review and update the framework to reflect changing circumstances and emerging evidence.
Comparing Vaccination Rates in the US to Other Developed Countries
A comparison of vaccination rates in the US to other developed countries highlights disparities in access to vaccines and underscores the need for targeted improvements. According to data from the Our World in Data website, the US ranks 44th among 182 countries in terms of vaccine coverage, with an average of 74% of the population fully vaccinated as of January 2023. This lags behind countries like the United Kingdom (87%), Germany (85%), and France (84%).
| Country | Vaccine Coverage (Jan 2023) |
|---|---|
| United States | 74% |
| United Kingdom | 87% |
| Germany | 85% |
| France | 84% |
Approaches Taken by Previous Democratic Administrations to Public Health Crises
Previous Democratic administrations have demonstrated leadership and strategic thinking in responding to public health crises, including the 2009 H1N1 outbreak and the 2014 Ebola epidemic. The Obama administration’s response to the H1N1 outbreak focused on rapid vaccine development and distribution, while the Ebola response emphasized coordination with international health organizations and deployment of medical personnel.
Protecting Vulnerable Populations during the Pandemic, 6 things democrats could investigate if they win in 2026
The current pandemic has disproportionately impacted vulnerable populations, including communities of color, low-income households, and individuals with chronic medical conditions. To protect these groups, Democrats can focus on improving access to vaccines, enhancing public health messaging, and ensuring equitable distribution of resources.
- Develop targeted vaccine distribution plans that prioritize high-risk communities and populations.
- Increase funding for community-based initiatives that promote health equity and address social determinants of health.
- Foster collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations to deliver culturally responsive care.
- Ensure that public health messaging is accessible and understandable for diverse audiences.
Infographic: Demographics Most at Risk from COVID-19
Key demographics most at risk from COVID-19 include:
– Vulnerable populations, such as older adults and individuals with chronic medical conditions
– Communities of color, which have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic
– Low-income households, which face barriers to accessing healthcare and vaccines
According to the CDC, COVID-19 has disproportionately affected non-Hispanic Black (24%), Hispanic (24%), and American Indian/Alaska Native (25%) populations.
Review of the Current State of US Climate Policies
The United States has been a key player in global climate negotiations, but its domestic policies have not kept pace with the urgency of the crisis. The Biden administration has made significant strides in rejoining the Paris Agreement and promoting climate action, but much work remains to be done. This review will examine the current state of US climate policies and identify areas for improvement.
Current Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Carbon Footprint
The US is the second-largest emitter of greenhouse gases (GHGs) globally, accounting for approximately 13% of global emissions. The country’s emissions come primarily from the fossil fuel industry, with the top three sectors being:
- Electricity generation: 25% of total emissions
- Transportation: 27% of total emissions
- Industrial processes: 20% of total emissions
These sectors are responsible for significant carbon emissions, with the electricity generation sector emitting an estimated 2.3 billion metric tons of CO2-equivalent emissions in 2020 alone. To put this in perspective, the US would need to reduce its emissions by 45% to meet the Paris Agreement’s target of limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.
Congressional Climate Policies Compared to Trump Administration
During the 2020 election, the Democratic Party proposed ambitious climate policies that included:
- Aiming for 100% renewable energy by 2035
- Increasing fuel efficiency standards for vehicles
- Implementing a carbon pricing system
In comparison, the Trump administration pursued policies that rolled back Obama-era climate regulations, including the Clean Power Plan and the Paris Agreement withdrawal. While the Biden administration has taken steps to reverse these rollbacks, more work is needed to ensure the US meets its international climate obligations.
Steps to Accelerate the Transition to Renewable Energy
To accelerate the transition to renewable energy, Democrats could consider the following strategies:
- Incentivizing private investment in solar and wind energy through tax credits and grants
- Implementing policies to support the growth of renewable energy technologies, such as research and development funding
- Creating a national grid modernization plan to integrate more clean energy sources
Additionally, Democrats could explore strategies to promote energy efficiency and reduce emissions in the transportation sector, such as investing in electric vehicle infrastructure and promoting public transportation.
Global Cooperation on Climate Action
To strengthen global cooperation on climate action, Democrats could design a detailed plan for engagement with international partners, including:
- Negotiating and enforcing climate agreements, such as the Paris Agreement and the Kyoto Protocol
- Coordinating climate finance and technology transfer efforts with developing countries
- Supporting the development of climate-resilient infrastructure
This would require building strong relationships with key global partners, including the European Union, China, and India, to promote collective action on climate change.
International Partnerships for Climate Action
The US has a unique opportunity to lead global climate efforts through partnerships with other nations. Democrats could focus on building relationships with key partners, such as:
- The European Union, to strengthen cooperation on climate policy and technology transfer
- China, to address concerns about climate change and promote sustainable development
- India, to support efforts to increase energy access and reduce emissions
These partnerships could help promote global cooperation on climate action, share best practices, and leverage collective resources to address the climate crisis.
R&D Funding for Clean Technologies
To accelerate the transition to renewable energy, Democrats could prioritize increased R&D funding for clean technologies, with a focus on:
- Solar energy: developing more efficient solar panels and energy storage systems
- Wind energy: improving turbine efficiency and reducing costs
- Energy storage: developing advanced battery technologies for greater energy efficiency
By investing in R&D, the US can drive innovation and reduce the cost of clean energy technologies, making them more competitive with fossil fuels and accelerating the transition to a low-carbon economy.
Investigation into Corporate Tax Avoidance and Evasion
The investigation into corporate tax avoidance and evasion aims to shed light on the complex web of tax loopholes and deductions that corporations use to minimize their tax liability. This practice not only deprives the government of much-needed revenue but also undermines the fairness and equity of the tax system. By exploring the current state of corporate taxation, the Democratic party can design a comprehensive plan to close these loopholes and increase tax revenue, ultimately benefiting the economy and society as a whole.
Closing Tax Loopholes and Increasing Tax Revenue
To address the issue of corporate tax avoidance and evasion, the following steps can be taken:
- Strengthening anti-avoidance rules: The tax code should be updated to clearly define and prevent aggressive tax planning strategies. This can include rules that prohibit the use of complex financial instruments and transactions to shift profits to low-tax jurisdictions.
- Eliminating special deductions and credits: Many corporations take advantage of specific deductions and credits that were intended for small businesses or individual taxpayers. These should be eliminated or reformed to prevent abuse.
- Introducing a minimum effective tax rate (METR): A METR would ensure that corporations pay a minimum tax rate on their revenue, regardless of the tax strategies they use. This would prevent corporations from claiming credits and deductions that result in negligible tax liabilities.
- Implementing country-by-country reporting (CBCR): This would require Multinational Enterprises (MNEs) to report their financial activities on a country-by-country basis, making it easier to identify and address tax evasion and avoidance.
Tax Burden Comparison and Loophole Exploitation
A comprehensive chart comparing the tax burden of different industries and companies can help identify those that contribute the most to tax revenue and those that exploit loopholes to minimize their tax liability. This information can be used to inform policy decisions and target reforms.
| Industry/Company | Effective Tax Rate (ETR) | Tax Burden ( billions of $) |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Services (e.g., Goldman Sachs) | 3.4% | $1.2 billion |
| Technology (e.g., Apple) | 10.4% | $5.5 billion |
| Energy (e.g., ExxonMobil) | 11.6% | $1.8 billion |
Comparison with Other Developed Countries
Denmark and Sweden have successfully implemented more progressive tax policies, which have resulted in a more equitable tax system and increased tax revenue. The approach taken by these countries can serve as a model for the United States, demonstrating that a more progressive tax system can be economically beneficial without sacrificing competitiveness.
Review of the US Healthcare System
The US healthcare system has long been a topic of concern, with significant disparities in access, quality, and affordability. Despite the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, being implemented over a decade ago, challenges persist, particularly in rural and low-income areas. A thorough review of the system is essential to understand the implications of its current design and identify areas for improvement. This investigation aims to explore the intricacies of the US healthcare system, its strengths and weaknesses, and the potential paths forward for reform.
The Role of Medicaid Expansion under the ACA
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) introduced the Medicaid expansion, allowing states to increase funding for low-income residents. This expansion has brought millions of people into health insurance coverage, significantly reducing the number of uninsured individuals. However, the ACA’s Medicaid expansion has not been without controversy. The Trump administration’s attempts to dismantle the law have led to ongoing debates about its future. The Democratic Party can build on the success of the ACA’s Medicaid expansion by strengthening and expanding it to ensure that more people have access to quality healthcare.
The expansion of Medicaid has been a game-changer for low-income families, enabling them to access essential health services without facing financial ruin. However, despite the significant gains, challenges persist. Many rural areas continue to face barriers in accessing healthcare, with shortages of healthcare professionals and inadequate infrastructure hindering access to quality care.
From 2013 to 2015, the uninsured rate among low-income adults in expansion states fell from 43.9% to 21.3%.
Comparing US Healthcare Outcomes to International Benchmarks
When comparing US healthcare outcomes to those of other high-performing countries, several challenges become apparent. The US has one of the highest infant mortality rates among developed countries, as well as a lower life expectancy compared to many nations. Hospital readmission rates also pose a significant concern, with nearly 20% of patients being readmitted within 30 days.
Key healthcare outcomes for the US and select high-performing countries are as follows:
| Country | Life Expectancy | Infant Mortality Rate |
| — | — | — |
| US | 78.7 years | 5.8 deaths per 1,000 live births |
| Norway | 83.8 years | 2.3 deaths per 1,000 live births |
| Japan | 84.7 years | 2.1 deaths per 1,000 live births |
| UK | 80.7 years | 3.9 deaths per 1,000 live births |
These findings indicate the need for the US to reassess its healthcare priorities and explore evidence-based solutions that have proven successful in other countries.
Democratic Strategies for Healthcare Reform
To build on the successes of the ACA, Democrats can focus on expanding public option plans, strengthening Medicaid, and addressing the social determinants of health. By prioritizing these areas, the party can create a more comprehensive and equitable healthcare system that ensures every American has access to quality care.
* Expand Public Option Plans: The public option plan aims to provide Americans with the option to purchase affordable health insurance. This can be achieved by the federal government negotiating lower pharmaceutical prices and increasing competition in the insurance market.
* Strengthen Medicaid: Medicaid expansion has been instrumental in reducing the number of uninsured individuals. Democrats can work towards strengthening Medicaid by providing adequate funding, expanding eligibility, and increasing outreach and enrollment efforts.
* Address Social Determinants of Health: The social determinants of health encompass a wide range of factors, including poverty, education, housing, and nutrition. By addressing these underlying issues, Democrats can create a more holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on prevention and community-based care.
Global Healthcare Models for Lessons and Inspiration
Singapore’s national healthcare system and the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) are exemplary models that offer valuable lessons for the US.
Singapore’s healthcare system is built on a dual-layer model, where individuals are required to pay a percentage of their income for health insurance premiums. This shared responsibility encourages individuals to take an active role in their health, while also ensuring access to high-quality care. Singapore’s focus on preventative care and wellness programs has led to improved health outcomes and a reduced reliance on hospital care.
In contrast, the UK’s NHS operates as a publicly-funded, single-payer healthcare system. Patients are typically free to access medical services without direct costs, making healthcare a vital component of British society. The NHS prioritizes prevention and early intervention, with an emphasis on community-based care and public health initiatives.
| Country | Model | Key Features |
| — | — | — |
| Singapore | Dual-layer | Shared responsibility, preventative care, and wellness programs |
| UK | Single-payer | Publicly-funded, comprehensive coverage, emphasis on community-based care |
By studying and adapting these models, the US can learn from international best practices and develop innovative solutions to address its unique healthcare challenges.
Final Summary
As the stakes get higher, one thing is clear: Democrats owe it to the American people to get to the bottom of these pressing issues once and for all. With a focus on transparency, accountability, and good old-fashioned investigative journalism, they’ll be well on their way to creating a more just and equitable society for all.
FAQ Corner: 6 Things Democrats Could Investigate If They Win In 2026
What is the main goal of investigating these issues?
The main goal is to uncover the truth and hold those in power accountable for their actions. This will help build trust with the American people and lead to more informed decision-making.
Will investigating these issues be expensive?
The cost of investigation will depend on the specific issues and the resources needed to conduct the research.
What will be the impact of these investigations on the US government?
The impact will be significant, as it will lead to increased transparency, accountability and good governance, ultimately strengthening the US government and its institutions.
