Advancing Equity for Black Americans, the Looming Question for Senate Republicans, and More

February 13, 2021

Policies to advance equity for Black Americans

From housing to education, digital inclusion, and access to banking, there are many policy reforms the Biden administration could enact on the road to racial equity. In commemoration of Black History Month, Brookings experts offer their recommendations on what the new administration should prioritize in a policy agenda designed to support Black Americans.

USAID's policy voice should be heard

"Development and humanitarian relief complement diplomacy and defense in times of crisis and in preventing the negative consequences of underdevelopment." J. Brian Atwood and Larry Garber explain why it is vital for Samantha Power to have a principal seat in the National Security Council and how USAID bolsters America's security.

Republicans and the Senate impeachment vote

Despite a riveting prosecution and a chaotic defense of the former president, the outcome of Donald Trump's second impeachment appears to be a foregone conclusion. The question now is whether any Republicans will vote to convict and bar Trump from holding future office, writes Elaine Kamarck.

Recommendations for Biden's FCC

President Biden's Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is facing a number of pressing challenges, including cybersecurity gaps and America's digital divide. In a new blog series, Former FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler explains how the agency can work to tackle these problems.

Protecting the cybersecurity of U.S. networks. During his tenure, FCC Chairman Ajit Pai opposed efforts to proactively deal with cybersecurity protection. A new approach is needed to handle today's digital threats.

Bridging the digital divide. High-speed internet has proved to be essential during the COVID-19 pandemic, but up to 42 million Americans lack access to service and millions more cannot afford it.

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