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Thomas Fiske      Response 13

Question 13: What is the state's role in promoting affordable housing? Share a specific proposal in this area.

To begin to deal with the housing shortage, I would immediately
propose: 1) Stop all evictions and home foreclosures, 2) Reduce all
rents to 10% of the renter's income, 3) Launch a massive construction
program to build thousands of safe, affordable public housing units,
and 4) Eliminate all real estate taxes on home owners.

Safe, affordable housing is a basic human right.

I would propose these measures not only to the legislature but
also to workers in their unions and farmers in their organizations as
part of a program to advance their interests. As shown by the
strikes against US West, Northwest and UPS, working people are
beginning to say no to new concessions and are beginning to organize
themselves as a social force. The unions will gain in stature and
effectiveness as they also campaign around social questions such as
affordable housing.