Platform

The Meridian platform provides an overview of the issues that we see as most important and lists the general principles that will guide us. The platform also provides specific examples of how Meridian's guiding principles could be enacted. As we begin to tackle these pressing issues, Meridian will remain open to new and innovative ideas as to how to address the challenges presented to us. We welcome feedback on our platform from everyone.  Meridian's platform will remain fluid and adaptable as potential solutions to various issues arise and will be updated to reflect these ideas.

Economy

A capitalist, free-market economy has been and will continue to be the best way to drive economic growth in America. The government needs to support an environment that allows businesses the freedom to innovate and expand without undue interference from government bureaucracy, while protecting the overall good of the people.

Immigration

Our country needs a comprehensive immigration solution that provides opportunities for immigrants within a framework that puts in place reasonable immigration controls. The goal is to ensure an appropriate number of immigrants are able to enter the country in a law-abiding manner, while providing safety and security for the U.S.

Environment policy

Responsible environmental policies are required to balance a successful economy with the need to maintain a healthy environment. Where possible, free market mechanisms like a carbon tax should be utilized to spur responsible stewardship of the environment and incentivize businesses and individuals to embrace and grow clean energy sources.

Criminal Justice system

The “War on Drugs” and expansion of mandatory minimum sentencing over the past few decades have created a culture of incarceration without regard for the long-term consequences to society.  Additionally, relations between police and citizens have deteriorated due to a lack of mutual trust and respect. We need to continue to punish criminals for their actions, while targeting criminal justice reforms to bring fairness and logic back to incarceration.

Redistricting & election reform

Illogical electoral redistricting (ie. gerrymandering) corrupts the principle of “one person, one vote” and erodes our voice in the democratic process.  Passing laws and electing leaders that seek to prohibit gerrymandering and also look to implement other election reforms is essential to our democracy.   

Entitlement programs

Entitlement reform is necessary now. Without reform, our entitlement program benefits will either be drastically reduced for the next generation or the programs will contribute to an ever-widening federal deficit that could significantly hurt our economy.

Common Sense Gun safety

We believe in and respect the Second Amendment right to bear arms. The right to bear arms has been a core, founding principle of the United States and we intend on protecting that right for all Americans. That being said, no right is absolute and we encourage gun safety laws that protect Americans.

Foreign Policy

The United States has a strategic obligation to continue to engage with the world and confront the many challenges facing the U.S. and its allies. American leadership has guided us through many troubling times in the past and has helped position the U.S. as the strongest military and economy in the world. While guarding against the risks of unnecessary foreign entanglements, the U.S. should continue to promote its core values of democracy, civil liberties and free markets throughout the world.

Social & Constitution

As American society evolves and progresses, the protections afforded by our Constitution need to continue to apply in all circumstances. Civil liberties as well as human rights for all people are core to our American values and need to be protected from government intrusion.

Free Markets & Free Trade

The expansion of the world economy and free trade have been the primary contributors to America’s economic dominance since World War II. However, these policies have not been beneficial to every American so we should look for ways to help more Americans find worthwhile, good-paying jobs.

Healthcare

Affordable and accessible healthcare for all Americans is essential and should be administered through a mix of public and private sources. In order to make affordable healthcare available to all Americans, government-run programs need to be operated in a more cost-efficient manner and a framework needs to be established that permits the medical industry to retain reasonable profits while balancing consumer protections.   

Education Reform

The United States has not taken the steps necessary to provide a quality education for all of its children. An educational renaissance will provide the backbone for our next generation of workers and the foundation for young adults to be successful and stable members of society.