Reasons for your political views

[politicallefty]

On social issues, I don't believe the government should really be interfering into what goes on between consenting individuals. What goes on behind closed bedroom doors is generally no business of the state. That's what shapes my views on abortion, gay rights, alcohol/drug laws, etc. And while I think minors should have rights and protections as well, they should be nearly absolute for adults. In other words, I believe a minor has a right to an abortion or a right to be gay, but I do believe there should be restrictions with respect to alcohol and drugs.

With respect to economic issues, I support a basic welfare state that provides for its citizens. I also support capitalism and free market innovations. However, I think it should be regulated to ensure worker rights and protections, including an adequate minimum wage. The welfare state should provide heavily for the neediest. For everyone, the government should provide universal single-payer healthcare, heavily subsidized or free college education, and Social Security. The government can also pick up the slack where the private sector is lacking, such as with the space program and renewable energy (for those, public-private partnerships are the best option).

When it comes to foreign affairs, I think the US should work within larger international organizations. That would include ending the military-industrial complex and substantially reducing defense spending. Military force should be reserved for absolute self-defense, imminent foreign aggression, and ally/treaty obligations. We need to stop being the world's police and take a more equal position among the other world powers.