This panel on January 10, 2005 discussed progressive approaches to addressing Social Security's financing challenge and whether, and under what circumstances, progressives could agree to a compromise solution. Panelists discussed the president's likely proposal to partially privatize Social Security, outlined the principles that should underlie a progressive approach, and examined the new and existing progressive ideas on how to shore up Social Security and strengthen retirement security in the U.S.

Many steps have been taken since 9/11 tragedy, including the establishment of the Department of Homeland Security, which have made it difficult for global terror networks to strike the United States. But serious vulnerabilities remain, particularly with respect to port, airline and rail security and chemical facilities. Are we devoting sufficient resources to homeland security? Are we stretched properly? Do we have effective interaction with state and local officials? A distinguished panel of national and homeland security experts will discuss the state of Homeland Security; a vision for the future; and the priorities for the next secretary of homeland security and the Bush administration in its second term.

Our nation faces a growing uninsurance crisis and shares in the global struggle against diseases such as AIDS. The federal budget, as the most tangible embodiment of our nation's priorities and values, should reflect our commitment to overcoming these challenges. Yet the president and Congressional leaders have indicated that this year's budget is likely to retreat from that commitment by imposing dramatic cuts that provide a safety net for vulnerable Americans and by inadequately funding vitally necessary global health efforts.

Few issues will gain more public and political attention in coming years than tax reform -- both fundamental reforms and incremental changes to our tax code. Through successive tax cuts that primarily benefited the very wealthiest, President Bush has already made the federal tax system more complicated and unfair, while starving the nation of revenues needed to meet our current and future challenges. American Progress is holding a forum to release its comprehensive plan for progressive tax reform.