Ray Boshara

This menu of policy options is presented with federal policymakers in mind. It reflects our latest and best thinking, and draws heavily on the work of many experts focusing on various facets of savings and asset-building policy. The menu includes calls for new structures and policies as well as small changes to existing financial products and government programs. As there are many policy routes to broadening savings and asset ownership, there is necessarily some overlap among the ideas presented. The… more

Summary of Remarks

The second panel of the Real State of the Union, "Rethinking Domestic Policy" was moderated by Morton Mondracke, executive editor of Roll Call. The discussion focused on fundamental problems at the core of American domestic policy, including asset management, health care, and improving standards for all Americans.

Ray Boshara, Director of New America's Asset Building Program, led off the discussion by focusing on the "ownership society." Mr. Boshara defined the current economic social status in the United States as… more

Perhaps a good way to begin debate on President Bush's bold and commendable ideas for an "ownership society" would be to ask, "Who owns America?" After all, if ownership policies further concentrate the ownership of assets for those who already own a lot, while doing little for those who own nothing, what's the point?

According to the Federal Reserve, the bottom 40 percent of the nation owns less than 1 percent of the nation's wealth, while the bottom 60… more

In the wake of an election characterized by extreme partisanship and name-calling, the country is confronted by major challenges -- economic inequality, a growing divide on social issues, global instability and terrorism, among many others. What is the real state of the union and how do we build a consensus to move the country forward?

Join us for a provocative policy conference, featuring Richard Clarke, former National Coordinator for Counter-Terrorism, and James Fallows, National Correspondent, The Atlantic, along with some of… more

Even in this era of dwindling public resources, California can take significant steps to encourage its residents to save and invest in themselves. The following are a sampling of cost-effective, asset-building policies. Most are from other states, which are ahead of California in this emerging policy area. These recommendations would bolster the economic security of the state and its 35 million residents.

Create a system of voluntary retirement accounts for businesses and individuals. Only 39 percent of California workers participate in… more

California's leaders need to cut a new deal with struggling families: If you're willing to work and save, we'll help you own a private investment account, accumulate wealth and control your own economic future. And to California's kids, leaders should say: We'll get you started on a path of saving and investment from the day you are born, make sure your school teaches you how this economy works, but it's up to you to make smart investments in your future… more

California's Great Disconnect: The Governed and the Government David Lesher, California Program Director

Slice 'N Dice: Smaller Legislative Districts Will Yield More Lawmakers, More Accountability and Better Decision Making Heather Barbour, Fellow

Dear {Insert Name}: VOTE FOR ME! Farai Chideya, Fellow Democracy at a Crossroads … more