make the case for serious federal investment and stimulus to counteract the GOP austerity plan, which is hurting people.

The Obama administration has adopted many conservative talking points, including the whole "if families need to pay off their debts, so must the government." Now is the time for the US government to invest in its people by creating jobs (infrastructure), and technological innovation (space exploration, genetic research, green energy). While interest rates are at record lows, borrowing to make such investments is not only virtually free, but could have an enormous stimulating effect on the economy. Help get people employed again, doing new and innovative things, and able to pay off personal debts and invest in the economy. Austerity measures only hurt such people, and are a long-term detriment to the economy.