Dear Friends,

On August 10, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV), the University of Nevada-Las Vegas, and the Center for American Progress Action Fund once again brought together some of the most respected leaders from industry, science, government, and advocacy organizations to discuss a policy agenda for creating good jobs in the new clean-energy economy. The National Clean Energy Summit 2.0: Jobs and the New Economy featured President Bill Clinton, Vice President Al Gore, Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, General Wesley Clark, Labor Secretary Hilda Solis, T. Boone Pickens, and many more. For full event video, click here.

CAP reports continue to influence legislation. An amendment in the American Clean Energy and Security Act from Reps. John Dingell (D-MI), Jay Inslee (D-WA), and Bart Gordon (D-TN) to create an independent Green Bank with a broad range of financial services within the Department of Energy was passed 51-6 during the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s markup of the bill. Here is a short guide to understanding how a publicly owned bank would invest in clean-energy technologies to boost U.S. innovation and jobs growth. For more information on the transition to a clean-energy economy, visit CAP’s newly launched resource center, The Hub.

Senator Tom Daschle (D-SD) is currently participating in a CAP “Ask the Expert” video series on why we need health care reform. Last week, Senator Daschle spoke about how health care reform will help all Americans, including doctors and patients, and the insured and the uninsured. This week, Senator Daschle explains how our current health care system hurts our economy. Be sure to check back on August 25 for the next installment of “Ask the Expert” with Senator Daschle.

Warmest,
Anna, Nina, and Shana  

The SE&Ds of Change

Nina Hachigian explores why American officials returning to service after eight years out of power will find a very different China. Along with China's economics growth have come more widespread interests and self-assurance. Read more.
(The New Republic)

Economic Snapshot for August 2009

The longest recession since the Great Depression may be coming to an end. This is quite different from a recovery, never mind a strong one. And the country needs a strong and sustained recovery to reduce the economic slack that is obvious everywhere. Read more.

Slideshow: Afghanistan Heads to the Ballot Box

Pre-election photos from Brian Katulis' trip to Afghanistan. See the photos here.