DN56: Candidates for political office are judged on many factors including foreign policy, healthcare plans and domestic issues to name just a few. Those of us with disabilities look beyond these criteria and consider how a candidate might respond to our issues which include upholding the ADA and other disability legislation, potential decisions they might make on Medicare and Medicaid funding, and their experience with disability issues. As America determines who the candidates for President will be, its imperative that we know and understand their positions on issues that impact our community.

With the 2008 Presidential Primary season well underway and Super Tuesday in our rear view mirror, we’re starting to find out more about the candidates and who might appear on the ballot this November. As people with disabilities, its vital that we understand just what the candidates support and what we might expect if they are elected. This episode features position statements made by the three major candidates for President including Hillary Clinton, John McCain and Barack Obama.

This episode also features an interview with Sue Suter, Associate Commissioner of Employment Programs with the Social Security Administration. Sue has oversight of the Ticket to Work program and talked with me about some pending changes to the program. It is expected that new regulations that govern the program will be released later this year, hopefully resulting in a stronger and broader program for people with disabilities who want to work.

Finally, this episode also features the latest news from the disability community provided by Inclusion Daily Express. Visit Inclusion Daily to sign up to receive the Inclusion Daily Express newsletter.

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