The Origins of the Center for American Progress

The Center for American Progress began as an idea from John Podesta amid the beginnings of the Iraq War and Bush administration. Original backers were impressed by CAP’s innovative approach to combining technology and communications with policy work. During its first few years, CAP made major steps in denouncing the Iraq War and endorsing marriage equality. Later, it played a pivotal role in passing the Affordable Care Act and Inflation Reduction Act. In the next 20 years, CAP hopes to continue strengthening our democracy while also working to enact policy that builds an economy for all, tackles climate change and environmental injustice, advances racial equity and justice, and strengthens health.