Progressive Caucus Unveils New Affordability Agenda

On Wednesday the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) introduced a ten-point “New Affordability Agenda” in Washington, D.C. The package bundles new and existing bills that target lower prices for housing, groceries, childcare, prescription drugs, utilities, gas and other essentials. CPC leaders present the agenda as a unifying platform for Democrats ahead of the 2026 midterms.

Common Dreams

CPC members say the current cost-of-living squeeze has been deepened by President Donald Trump’s tariff regime, the United States’ “war of choice” in Iran, and cuts to safety-net programs. They cite Trump’s dismissal of rising costs as evidence that the administration downplays affordability concerns. Recent surveys rank affordability as the top issue for American voters.

Common Dreams

The agenda is championed by CPC Chair Rep. Greg Casar (D-TX), Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Rep. Becca Balint (D-VT) and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), who co-sponsors a universal-childcare bill. Principal measures include the Affordable Drug Manufacturing Act to produce generic medicines, a federally supported network of local childcare centers, a ban on AI price gouging, a guarantee of two weeks paid vacation for full-time workers, an overtime-pay increase and a cap on super-PAC contributions.

Common Dreams

Polling by Data for Progress shows each policy wins majority support from at least three-in-five voters; paid-time-off and utility-cost limits each attract 79 % approval. Paid vacation and utility-cost caps each draw 79 % voter approval, the highest levels among the proposals. The CPC notes that 60 % of Americans live paycheck to paycheck, underscoring the political urgency. Officials argue the agenda offers a “bold, populist” alternative to Republican economic policies and could rally Democratic candidates in 2026.

Common Dreams

CPC representatives stressed that affordability is a real problem, not a “hoax,” and called for Democratic action to counter special-interest practices that raise prices. They highlighted broad public backing and pledged to move the legislation forward swiftly. CPC leaders argue the agenda directly tackles the rigged economic system they attribute to special interests. No statements from Republican leaders were provided in the source material.

Common Dreams

• “Affordability is not a ‘hoax,'” — Rep. Greg Casar, CPC Chair

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• “In 2026, Democrats cannot politely nibble around the edges when taking on a rigged economic system,” — Sen. Elizabeth Warren

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• “At a time when 60% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck and billionaires and large corporations have never had it so good, the Congressional Progressive Caucus is putting forward bold ideas this country desperately needs,” — Sen. Bernie Sanders

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• “They have been loud and clear that everything is too damn expensive, and we must respond,” — Rep. Becca Balint

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CPC members plan to introduce the highlighted bills in the upcoming congressional session, aiming for passage before the 2026 midterms. The caucus will work with partner unions and advocacy groups to mobilize public support for the bills. Ongoing polling and stakeholder feedback will shape the agenda’s legislative strategy.

Common Dreams