There has yet to be the political slogan that says:

“We will work cooperatively together to formulate policy that meets the needs of the times without adhering to ideology in order to deliver legislation that gives the maximum impact to most Americans without jeopardizing our ideals and values.”

Definitely different than “Make America Great Again” or “I’m With Her” or “Change We Can Believe In.” Other Campaign Slogans. Notice they average 3 – 4 words.

Simplistic platforms require simplistic approaches. Simplicity, while quaint, doesn’t necessarily meet the demands of a dynamic and complex reality.

Take GDP. On paper, it sounds like we’re doing well, but real wages have been stagnant since the 1970s. This is a known fact. A real indicator of economic health is purchasing power. Since the late 70s, and it’s been a growing trend, more Americans have been able to purchase less with much less. And this doesn’t take into account growing liabilities, such as student debt. “Back in my day, I was able to work my way through college.” Well, when a credit hour was 40 bucks, you could do that delivering pizzas. (Yes. The numbers I’m using are completely fabricated. But since no one acknowledges facts anymore, I’m free to make up whatever I like). #salty

Numbers notwithstanding, the reality on the ground is palpable. So when a candidate comes along and talks about a “return” or a program that is a “solve-it-all,” we need to be equal parts hesitant and suspicious. Snake oil salesmen used the same maxims. The silver bullet fallacy is perfectly applicable in this situation. No one thing can solve all things. Look at history and see a continuum of policies that have shifted to meet the demands of a dynamic set of problems. For example, the Great Depression saw a response of civil programs, capital injection, and the great shock of the middle century — World War II.

Come 2020, we need to wear squinted eyes when we hear someone talk about Green New Deals and Walls and tax cuts.