Brookings will use its scholars and its convening power to assemble experts with a variety of viewpoints to examine the issues in eight National Issues Forums, beginning in January and continuing until shortly before Election Day. This new environment should promote both a reexamination of current national priorities and debate on an agenda for the nation's future. The candidates currently confront voters turned off by the politics of extreme partisanship and personal attack.
Voter turnout is low.
Many Americans believe candidates are out of touch with their concerns. Meanwhile, the endless hunt for campaign contributions is out of control. The presidential campaign provides and an opportunity to address these systemic problems, as well as such big issues as the proper size and role of the federal government vs. state and local governments, redesigning the governmental structure for the future, attracting good people to public service, and making the government more accountable. Helping the Americans Left Behind . And the new president will have to lead a dialogue on how to divide these responsibilities between the federal government, state and local governments, and private charitable and religious organizations.