Leadership is not about the next election, but about the next generation, as American author Simon Sinek said. As we consider the kind of world we are leaving for our kids and grandkids, we must ask if our leaders’ actions align with that goal.

National Challenges

Several issues demand attention, including reasonably priced housing, homelessness, Social Security, affordable health care, and the content and tone of our disagreements. Six key areas of concern are: national debt, military draft, gun safety, the environment, medical research, and Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The national debt continues to increase dramatically, contributing to higher interest rates, inflation, and reduced economic growth. The rising national debt will be a significant burden for the next generation.

There is also talk of reinstating the military draft, which has been a volunteer force since 1973. The draft would require males between 18 and 25 to register with the Selective Service System, and could lead to the selection of men for military service through a random lottery.

Gun safety is another critical issue, with firearm-related injuries being the leading cause of death for those aged 1-19. Common-sense steps can be taken, including background checks on all gun sales, Extreme Risk Protection Orders, safe storage laws, and minimum age requirements.

The environment is also a pressing concern, with climate change impacting future generations. We must consider the severity, timeline, and solutions to this issue, and take steps to protect our planet, including investing in clean energy and reducing pollution.

Medical research is essential for understanding and treating diseases, yet funding is being reduced or eliminated. This will have significant consequences for the next generation, who will have to address the challenges of cancer, dementia, and other diseases.

Finally, the development of AI requires careful consideration, as it has the potential to greatly impact our lives. We must establish laws and guidelines for its usage to ensure that we are not abdicating our responsibility to the next generation.

Original reporting: Springfield Daily Citizen — read the source article.