Basic Questions for our Presidential Candidates...

Everyone, it seems, is talking politics. I might as well get into the act, perhaps spurring some thoughtful discussion before presidential primary ballots are cast. Any readers with connections to campaigns that could forward these questions, go for it!

Questions from a long-time homelessness activist:

1. What are your thoughts on the current issue of expanding HUD's definition of homelessness, and thereby their mission, to include families and teens on their own?
2. What will your approach be to ensure safe, decent, affordable housing for everyone?
3. What steps would you have the federal government take to avoid a repeat, or continuation, of the subprime debacle?
4. What do you think should be done for families who are in severe financial crisis and at risk of homelessness because of this mess?
5. How would you guide this nation's approach to easing and eradicating homelessness?
6. What has your personal experience been with homelessness--e.g., contact with homeless children/adults, someone you know has experienced homelessness, shelter volunteer, etc.?
7. What is your assessment of this nation's homelessness--causes and solutions?
8. What steps would you take to establish a federal commitment to truly end the nightmare of homelessness?
9. What would you say to homeless adults, children and teens about their predictament and your commitment to ease it?
10. How would you explain the extreme differences between those who have extraordinarily extravagant housing and those who have none?

These are serious questions posed to serious candidates. IHK would love to share space with candidates and to invite homeless adults, teens and children to share their views. Have at it!

Seems to me that it's way past time to figure out basics in this interminable campaign--basics that matter to a growing category of people in cities, towns and rural areas across the nation. Instead of artificial standards that really don't measure the candidates' ability to improve this country, let's use some authentic gauges to enhance quality of life across the land.