Progressive Politics Explained: What It Means

In 2016, Senator Bernie Sanders and Hillary Clinton spent over an hour debating “progressive” during a CNN town hall. This showed how hard it is for even leaders to define this term¹. Today, nearly 70% of Democratic voters look for candidates who call themselves progressive¹. But what does progressive politics really mean?

At its heart, it’s a left-leaning idea that wants to change society through government actions. It aims for social justice and economic fairness². From Teddy Roosevelt’s trust-busting efforts to today’s talks on wealth inequality, this movement has deeply influenced America’s politics³. Let’s explore this important idea without using too much jargon.

Key Takeaways

• Progressive politics combines social liberalism and economic reforms to address inequality².
• Modern progressive politicians often focus on banking regulation, healthcare, and climate action¹.
• The term “progressive” gained renewed popularity under Barack Obama’s presidency¹.
• Early 20th-century progressives like John Stuart Mill pushed for workers’ rights and anti-trust laws².
• Progressive policies today aim to reduce wealth gaps through taxes and social programs².

Understanding the Fundamentals of Progressive Politics

Progressive politics started as a response to the fast changes of the late 1800s. The U.S. population almost doubled from 1870 to 1900. At the same time, manufacturing output grew by over 800%⁴.

This industrial growth made some people wealthy but left many poor. Progressivism aimed to fix this imbalance through reforms.

The Historical Roots of Progressivism

In the early 1900s, reformers worked on issues like child labor and unsafe workplaces. By 1912, thirty-eight states had laws against child labor⁵. Theodore Roosevelt used anti-trust laws to fight monopolies, filing forty-two cases during his time in office⁵.

Movements like Jane Addams’ settlement houses offered important community services. They combined social justice with practical solutions.

Distinguishing Progressivism from Other Political Ideologies

Progressivism is different from conservatism and socialism. It aims for a balance:

• Supports regulatory oversight but avoids nationalizing industries
• Prioritizes civic engagement over class-based revolutions
• Encourages scientific expertise in governance instead of ideological rigidity

It focuses on systemic change through government action, not just individual freedoms.

Why Progressive Politics Matters Today

Today’s challenges like climate change and income inequality remind us of the original progressive mission. The 1906 Pure Food and Drug Act’s legacy continues in today’s consumer protection laws⁵.

As automation changes work, progressive politics’ emphasis on fair growth is more important than ever. Its mix of social justice and practical governance offers solutions for today’s crises.

What Does Being a Progressive Politician Mean

To understand what a progressive politician is, we need to look at their main goals. They aim to use government to close wealth and rights gaps. This means they support policies like higher taxes on the rich to fund social programs⁶.

Their focus is on fairness, not just for money but also for groups like LGBTQ+ and low-income families⁷.

Core Belief	Policy Example
Economic Equity	Raising minimum wage and expanding social safety nets7
Social Justice	Legalizing same-sex unions and anti-discrimination laws6
Government Action	Tripling NHS funding and doubling education budgets7

Progressive politicians also believe in working with the community. They aim to lower poverty rates, like lifting 1 million seniors and 500k children out of poverty⁷. But, some say the term is too vague, allowing politicians to misuse it, like David Cameron did⁶.

• Support for wealth redistribution through taxation reforms⁶
• Advocacy for expanded healthcare access and education funding⁷
• Commitment to civil rights and anti-poverty programs

Being a progressive politician is about making big changes while being practical. They have had some success, like reducing homelessness and shortening NHS wait times⁷. But, they face challenges in setting clear goals. Their success depends on turning their ideas into real change.

The Core Values That Define Progressive Political Ideology

Progressive values aim to make society better for everyone. At its core, progressive political ideology champions equality, fair economics, and protecting the environment. Even though 73% of Americans value freedom more than equality⁸, progressives push for fairness through laws and education⁹. The poem “Let America Be America Again” beautifully expresses this dream:

“Let America be the dream the dreamer dreamed—”

Core Value	Key Focus
Social Justice	Ending mass incarceration9, 75% strong BLM support10
Economic Fairness	living wage, progressive taxation, expanded services910,)
Environmental Sustainability	climate action, renewable energy transitions9
Democratic Reforms	civic engagement, campaign finance transparency9

These values guide policies like Medicare For All⁹, which 62% of the Progressive Left support¹⁰. Progressives also focus on environmental policies to safeguard our planet for the future⁹. They ensure progressive party values put the collective good before corporate gains⁹. By tackling inequality and climate change, this ideology aims for a society where freedom, opportunity, and security are within reach for all⁸.

Evolution of Progressive Movement Principles Throughout American History

Progressive politics has changed over time, adapting to new challenges while keeping core values. This journey shows how progressive movement principles evolved from tackling industrial age issues to addressing modern crises. Let’s explore key phases in this ongoing story.

ERA	KEY FIGURES	MAJOR POLICIES
Early Progressive Era	Roosevelt, Addams	Antitrust laws, Pure Food Act11
New Deal	FDR	Social Security, progressive taxation12
Civil Rights Era	MLK, Eleanor Roosevelt	Civil Rights Act of 1964
21st Century	Modern activists	Climate justice, LGBTQ+ rights

Early Progressive Era (1890s-1920s)

From 1890 to 1920, progressivism in politics targeted Gilded Age inequalities. The era saw millionaires rise from 100 to 16,000 by 1916¹¹. Theodore Roosevelt’s trust-busting and Jane Addams’ social work highlighted calls for democracy reforms. The Meat Inspection Act (1906) followed Sinclair’s The Jungle revelations¹¹.

New Deal Progressivism

Franklin D. Roosevelt expanded government’s role during the Great Depression. The 16th Amendment (1913) introduced income taxes¹², while Social Security laid groundwork for economic safety nets. This marked a shift toward active governance to address inequality.

Civil Rights Era and Progressive Politics

Mid-20th century progressivism linked to racial justice. Landmark laws like the 1964 Civil Rights Act reflected expanded progressive movement principles beyond economic reforms to include equality for marginalized groups⁴.

Contemporary Progressive Movement (21st Century)

Today’s movement integrates climate action and LGBTQ+ rights with traditional goals. Modern leaders like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez advocate for Green New Deal and Medicare for All, showing how progressive politics adapts to new challenges.

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Evolution of Progressive Movement Principles Throughout American History

I’ll trace how progressive movement principles shaped America’s political landscape. From 19th-century reforms to today’s movements, these ideas have transformed while staying true to core goals of fairness and justice.

ERA	KEY FIGURES	KEY ISSUES
Early Progressive Era	Roosevelt, Addams	Antitrust laws, labor rights
New Deal	FDR	Economic security, Social Security Act
Civil Rights Era	Martin Luther King Jr.	Racial equality, Voting Rights Act
21st Century	AOC	Climate justice, healthcare reform

Early Progressive Era (1890s-1920s)

Weath disparities drove reforms during this period. Millionaires jumped from 100 in 1870 to 16,000 by 1916¹¹. Theodore Roosevelt’s trust-busting and Jane Addams’ settlement houses showed early focus on social welfare. The 1906 Pure Food Act followed The Jungle’s expose¹¹.

New Deal Progressivism

FDR’s New Deal redefined progressivism in politics. The 16th Amendment (income tax) and 17th (direct senator elections) expanded government’s role¹². Programs like Social Security addressed poverty and unemployment, marking a shift toward state-led solutions¹².

Civil Rights Era and Progressive Politics

1960s activists linked civil rights to progressive ideals. The 1964 Civil Rights Act and Voting Rights Act (1965) expanded equality goals⁴. This era merged racial justice with economic fairness, shaping modern movements.

Contemporary Progressive Movement (21st Century)

Todays progressive politics tackle climate change and digital-age inequities. Leaders like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez push the Green New Deal and Medicare for All, showing how principles adapt to new challenges⁴.

Key Characteristics of Progressive Politicians That Set Them Apart

Progressive leaders are known for wanting big changes and connecting with people on the ground. They stand out because they often choose bold actions like universal healthcare or fighting climate change over small steps¹³.

• Challenge entrenched power structures, advocating for equitable systems
• Engage directly with social movements and community organizers
• Support government intervention to address inequality and market failures
• Link issues like racial justice and economic policy into cohesive strategies

The Democratic Party is now more diverse than ever. It has six main groups, from Super Progressives to Conservative Democrats¹⁴. Super Progressives want big changes, while the Progressive New Guard focuses on winning elections¹⁴. Even when they agree on goals like fairness in the economy, they disagree on how to get there¹³.

Bloc	Key Traits
Super Progressives	Advocate for sweeping reforms, prioritize identity issues
Progressive New Guard	Focus on electability, post-Obama strategies
Moderates	Business-friendly stances, cross-party compromises

“Electoral Optimists believe a progressive majority is achievable, while Pessimists focus on defensive strategies”¹³

Knowing what makes a progressive politician helps voters see if they’re true to their word. Their mix of idealism and practicality affects what laws get passed. As debates on winning elections go on¹³, these qualities are key to what makes progressive leadership.

How Progressive Policies Address Economic Inequality

Progressive policies in government aim to shrink the wealth gap by targeting systemic inequities. Between 1979 and 2007, the bottom 90% of households saw their incomes drop by 20%¹⁵. At the same time, the top 1% captured two-thirds of income gains¹⁵. This stark divide drives the progressive political agenda’s focus on fair taxation, fair wages, and expanded social protections.

Time Period	Bottom 90% Income Growth	Top 1% Income Growth
1979–2007	0.2%15	245%15
1947–1979	2.1%15	Higher but not specified

Living wage advocacy is central to progressive political ideology. Policies like minimum wage hikes and union protections aim to ensure fair pay. For example, the bottom 90% saw stagnant wages post-1979¹⁵, so laws like the Green New Deal’s job programs seek to reverse this⁹.

Progressive taxation structures close loopholes for the wealthy. Raising capital gains taxes and closing corporate deductions aligns with data showing the top 1% captured 63.7% of income gains¹⁵. This approach ensures wealth fuels public goods like healthcare and housing⁹.

Social safety nets like expanded food assistance and Medicare For All aim to stabilize families. The progressive political agenda prioritizes these programs to address crises like the 2009 recession, which hit the bottom 90% harder than the wealthy¹⁵.

By blending these strategies, progressives address inequality’s root causes—not just its symptoms. Data shows this approach works: pre-1979, the bottom 90% gained 70% of income growth¹⁵. Modern policies aim to restore that balance.

Progressive Approaches to Healthcare Reform and Access

Progressive policies in government see healthcare as a basic right, not something to buy. This idea shapes the

• In 1915, the American Association for Labor Legislation suggested compulsory health insurance¹⁶, starting a debate that shaped future changes.
• The Affordable Care Act (ACA) helped more people get coverage, but in 2010, 18.2% of Americans were without insurance¹⁷. This was the highest number due to big gaps in the system.
• Now, 17 states don’t expand Medicaid, leaving 45% of uninsured people saying they can’t afford it¹⁷. This makes health gaps even bigger.

Today, progressive values push for universal healthcare like Medicare for All. But, there are ongoing debates. At first, 55% of people support these plans, but when they learn about the taxes, support drops to 40%¹⁷, according to Kaiser polls. Yet, 75% want to keep protections for those with pre-existing conditions, showing a clear demand for fairness.

Healthcare reform must align with both equity and affordability.

Progressives want to lower drug prices, improve mental health care, and tackle racial health disparities. Grassroots efforts are driving change, but practical steps like expanding Medicare aim to build on what we already have. The future depends on linking ideals with real progressive policies in government.

Environmental Justice and Sustainability in the Progressive Agenda

Environmental justice is key in the . Progressive politicians focus on protecting people and the planet. They aim to tackle climate change and create fair systems. For instance, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) sets aside $369 billion to reduce emissions by 2050¹⁸. Justice40 also ensures 40% of climate funds go to communities hit hard by pollution¹⁸.

Climate Change Policy Priorities

Progressive leaders push for big cuts in emissions and global agreements. The IRA aims for a 50% reduction in emissions by 2030¹⁹. But, some say it doesn’t go far enough because it keeps supporting fossil fuels¹⁹. The devastating effects of climate disasters, like Puerto Rico’s 2,975 deaths after Maria¹⁹, show the need to protect vulnerable areas.

Progressives want to fund resilience efforts to help these communities.

Renewable Energy Transitions

Investments in renewable energy aim to replace fossil fuels. The IRA supports green jobs and projects, but there’s a catch: 60% of tax breaks help homeowners, not renters¹⁸. New York’s ban on toxic projects near homes is a step in the right direction. Yet, getting equal access to IRA funds is a challenge¹⁸.

Environmental Protections and Regulations

Progressives push for strong pollution rules. The Clean Air Act has added 1.3 years to U.S. life expectancy¹⁸, showing the power of regulations. But, low-income areas face 15% more pollution¹⁸. The Biden administration’s plans for carbon capture might put more burden on already struggling areas¹⁸, raising questions about fairness.

Social Justice Issues at the Heart of Progressive Leadership Traits

Progressive leaders aim to break down big barriers. For example, 80% of corporate trusts in New Jersey show the need for better rules, matching progressive goals for fair economics²⁰. They push for fair justice and more voting rights. Yet, 4,138 people said there’s a lot of inequality, and progressive candidates often lose²¹.

LGBTQ+ rights are key, including laws against discrimination and support for transgender people. Oddly, many conservative voters agree with these ideas but don’t want to vote for them²¹.

Immigration reform is about making it easier for people to become citizens and be with their families. The Progressive Party wants kind policies, even when it’s hard. Half of Americans think there’s too much inequality, but making laws to fix it is tough²¹.

By focusing on how different issues connect, like poverty and racism, leaders can tackle more problems. For example, protecting jobs for underprivileged workers shows both progressive values and smart teamwork²⁰.

Progressive leaders work with local groups to make policies better. Studies show how voters see candidates differently, based on how they talk²¹. Even though many want change, making real progress needs a mix of dreams and practical plans. Being true to oneself and connecting with the community are key to moving forward in tough times.

Democratic Reforms and Voting Rights in Progressive Party Values

At the heart of progressive party values is a strong commitment to more democracy. Progressives push for changes like automatic voter registration and early voting. These efforts help make sure everyone’s voice is heard, focusing on fairness for all.

Historically, leaders like Frank B. Cooper in Seattle and Fred M. Hunter in Oakland led the way. They mixed different strategies to get more people involved in politics. Their work includes ending gerrymandering and making sure people can vote after they’ve been in jail. These actions show the progressive movement principles of fairness and change².

• Automatic voter registration at government offices
• Ranked-choice voting to reduce partisan polarization
• Independent redistricting commissions to replace partisan map-drawing

Progressives also want to change the Electoral College system. They believe presidential elections should reflect the popular vote. This idea goes back to the early 20th century, when reforms like direct primaries and Senate elections were introduced²². Some say these changes could cause problems, but others believe more people should have a say in democracy³.

By making voting easier, progressives aim to make government truly by the people. This focus on inclusivity connects to past movements and tackles today’s challenges. It shows that democracy is always evolving.

The Role of Grassroots Activism in Shaping Progressive Politics

Grassroots activism is key in pushing for change in politics. It involves everything from knocking on doors to using digital tools. For example, the 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire led to better workplace safety laws²³.

These moments show how crises can spark action. They highlight the importance of addressing local needs.

Grassroots innovations often provide more concrete and fair solutions compared to governmental policies.

Community Organizing Techniques

Saul Alinsky’s methods are used today. He focused on finding local leaders and tackling urgent issues. The 1916 Keating-Owen Act, banning child labor, was a result of this grassroots push²⁴.

Today, organizers use similar strategies. They fight for better housing and climate policies.

Building Progressive Coalitions

Successful coalitions bring together different groups. The 2020 climate strikes showed this, with students and labor unions working together²⁵. This mirrors M5S’s efforts in Italy, where they mobilized 200k+ campaigns²⁵.

These alliances help turn local successes into national movements. The Green New Deal is a great example of this²³.

Digital Activism and Social Media Strategy

Platforms like Twitter let activists share stories quickly. M5S used Twitter to mobilize 200k+ campaigns in Italy²⁵. This shows how digital tools can grow movements.

Hashtag campaigns like #BlackLivesMatter show the power of online action. They drive real-world change.

Traditional Politics	Grassroots Activism
Top-down decisions	Community-driven solutions
Short-term election focus	Ongoing engagement
Elite-driven messaging	Participant storytelling

Progressive politics do best when activists and policymakers work together. By combining old and new methods, movements like Sunrise keep pushing for change.

How Progressive Politicians Approach Governance and Policymaking

Progressive politicians focus on fairness and long-term success in their policies. They are known for listening to communities and valuing research. This shows their belief in fairness and making big changes.

“The scientific spirit and discipline of democracy demand expert-guided governance.” — Walter Lippmann, Drift and Mastery (1914)

Progressive reforms have empowered voters, like the 17th Amendment and ballot initiatives in 15 states by 1915²⁶. Today, progressive politicians are known for:

• Working with all groups in policy-making
• Testing new ideas first
• Checking how policies affect the poor

Young people are supporting progressive ideas more than ever. For example, 52% think the government should provide health insurance²⁷, and 59% want to tax the rich²⁷. These views match policies aimed at reducing wealth gaps, like fixing the issue where the top 1% has 15 times more wealth than the bottom 50%²⁸.

But, there are challenges. For instance, Michigan’s Progressive governor faced opposition from the legislature²⁶. Despite this, progressives keep working to make their ideals a reality in government.

Comparing Progressive Politics Across Different Levels of Government

Progressive politics change based on where decisions are made. This includes local, statewide, or national levels. We’ll see how progressive policies in government vary with each level and its priorities.

Local Progressive Initiatives

Cities and counties are where new ideas often start. They raise the minimum wage and let people decide how to spend money. These actions aim for fairness and community involvement.

Many local governments also work to fix police and justice issues. This is part of their effort to address deep-seated problems²⁹.

State-Level Progressive Policies

States lead on big issues like green energy and healthcare. For example, California sets high clean energy goals, and New York strengthens labor laws. This shows how states push forward when the federal government doesn’t act fast enough.

Over 63% of the Progressive Left want more federal services. But, states focus on what’s best for their area³⁰.

Federal Progressive Agenda Items

National reforms, like climate laws or tax changes, need federal action. The progressive political agenda aims for big changes, like sharing wealth through taxes. But, federal efforts often get stuck, leading to executive orders or court actions instead²⁹.

Local and state ideas can shape national debates. But, there are conflicts when federal policies don’t match local values. For example, 70% of voters want to decide some issues locally. This shows the challenges in balancing progressive politics across different levels of government³¹.

Common Criticisms of Progressive Politics and How to Understand Them

Progressive politics is often debated. Critics say it might slow down the economy with high taxes and spending. For example, 70% of “metro heartlanders” believe hard work leads to success, unlike 38% of zealous progressives³². This shows a big difference in views on fairness and opportunity.

• Economic Concerns: Critics worry that high taxes could hurt job creation. But, 60% of heartlanders prefer social programs like healthcare over tax cuts³².
• Governance Challenges: Some think progressivism in politics goes too far. For example, early 20th-century child labor laws were first rejected by courts but later passed³³.
• Cultural Divides: Critics say progressives don’t respect traditional values. But, 70% of heartlanders want to mix progressive goals with community traditions³².

Issue	Heartlanders	Zealous Progressives
Work Ethic	66% believe hard work leads to success	38% reject this view
Government Role	Open to pragmatic solutions	Push for systemic change
Coalition Building	Seek common ground	Focus on ideological purity

Debates within progressive politics are also important. Scholars point out that the Supreme Court often blocks progressive laws³⁴. Yet, 25% of Americans are open to finding common ground. Progressives need to tackle these concerns while pushing for goals like climate action and equity. Understanding these criticisms helps improve strategies without losing important values.

How to Identify Authentic Progressive Politicians in Today’s Political Landscape

“It was seen as a dirty word,” says Zelizer. After 1988, Democrats distanced themselves from the term³⁵.

In 2023, what does it mean to be a progressive politician? It’s not just about using certain words. Real leaders show their values through what they do. In California’s 2022 elections, voters chose not to support some candidates. This was because their progressive policies didn’t match local needs³⁶.

1. Policy Priorities
   True progressives focus on big changes like climate laws and affordable housing. Portland’s 2023 tax on companies with big pay gaps³⁵ shows they care about fairness. They also reject ideas that hurt the environment or the economy.
2. Voting Records
   Look at how they vote on important social justice bills. In 2022, some politicians lost their jobs because their actions didn’t match their words³⁶. Websites like VoteSmart.org help you see if they really support things like protecting the environment².
3. Money Trail
   Where they get their money matters. Politicians who take money from big corporations don’t fit the progressive mold. Portland’s law on CEO taxes³⁵ shows the difference between grassroots support and big money.

Real progressives are both idealistic and practical. In California’s 2022 elections, voters wanted leaders who could get things done³⁶. But a true progressive stays committed to fairness, even when it’s hard. Keep up with the news—politics may not always make sense, but facts can guide us.

Conclusion: Embracing the Progressive Vision for America’s Future

Progressive values have guided America toward fairness for over a century. The Progressive Party introduced direct primaries and labor laws, like minimum wages and child labor bans³⁷. Now, the Democratic Party follows this path, focusing on economic justice and climate action³⁸.

The progressive agenda tackles today’s big challenges. Leaders aim to end inequality and fight climate change, building on past wins. The 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory reforms and the Meat Inspection Act show how public pressure can lead to change³⁸. Today, activists like those from 1915 and Jane Addams at Hull House keep fighting for justice³⁸.

Despite challenges, like congressional gridlock or corporate influence, progressivism keeps moving forward³⁹. The 2020s are like the early 1900s, with grassroots efforts pushing for change. The 1912 Progressive Party platform, calling for fair wages and safety, shows the power of bold ideas³⁷.

Today’s debates on voting rights and climate policy carry on this tradition. By supporting leaders who focus on fairness and the environment, we can move forward. Every action, from organizing to voting, brings us closer to a more just America. The progressive vision is not just history; it’s a guide for our future.

FAQ

What does being a progressive politician mean?

Being a progressive politician means using government to fight social and economic inequalities. They focus on grassroots movements and policies that improve people’s lives. This approach involves active government intervention.

What core values define progressive political ideology?

Progressive politics values social justice and equality, economic fairness, environmental sustainability, and democratic reforms. They push for equal rights, workers’ rights, a healthy environment, and more civic engagement. This aims to create a fair society.

How has progressivism evolved over time in American history?

Progressivism in America started with early reforms in the 1890s-1920s. It then moved to the New Deal era for economic security. The Civil Rights Movement followed, and today’s movement includes climate justice and LGBTQ+ rights.

What are some key characteristics of progressive politicians?

Progressive politicians challenge power structures and connect with grassroots organizing. They support bold policy solutions and government intervention in the economy. They also link social issues together, not treating them separately.

How do progressive policies address economic inequality?

Progressive policies fight economic inequality with living wages, progressive taxes, and social safety nets. These efforts aim to fairly compensate workers, reduce wealth concentration, and ensure access to healthcare and housing.

What approaches do progressives take towards healthcare reform?

Progressives see healthcare as a human right. They push for policies that expand access, lower costs, and focus on patient well-being. This includes ideas like Medicare for All and tackling prescription drug prices and mental health access.

How do progressives incorporate environmental justice into their agenda?

Progressives link environmental issues with social justice. They support climate policies, renewable energy, and environmental protections. These efforts help low-income and minority communities harmed by environmental damage.

Why are social justice issues important in progressive leadership?

Social justice issues like racial equity, LGBTQ+ rights, and immigration reform are key for progressives. They address systemic inequalities and push for inclusive policies. This uplifts marginalized voices in society.

What democratic reforms do progressives support?

Progressives support voting rights and democratic reforms. They advocate for automatic voter registration, mail-in ballots, campaign finance reform, and stopping gerrymandering. These efforts aim to increase political participation and representation for all citizens.

How does grassroots activism play a role in progressive politics?

Grassroots activism is essential for progressive politics. It creates a strong bond between politicians and social movements. It empowers communities, builds coalitions, and uses digital activism to mobilize for change.

How do progressive politicians approach governance and policymaking?

Progressive politicians focus on including stakeholders, experimenting with policies, and prioritizing long-term goals. They build policies with community input, focusing on equity and helping vulnerable populations.

What challenges do progressives face at different levels of government?

Challenges vary at local, state, and federal levels. Local efforts test broader policies, state agendas tackle regional issues, and federal policies aim for nationwide reforms.

What are common criticisms of progressive politics?

Critics often say progressive politics spend too much, are inefficient, elitist, and limit individual freedom. Progressives respond by explaining their values, historical context, and goal of creating an equitable society.

How can one identify authentic progressive politicians?

To find real progressive politicians, look at their policy stances, voting records, and campaign funding sources. Understanding these can reveal their true values and priorities on progressive issues.

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