In reaction to the United States' moving from a manufacturing-dominated economy to one based on information and technology, gubernatorial candidate Doug Ross outlined his plans last night for Michigan to deal with this changing environment.
"We are going through a historic transition," said Ross, who has placed a bid for the Democratic nomination for governor in 1998. "All the rules suddenly change."
Ross reminisced on the times when anyone willing to put in an honest day of labor could live in the middle class.
"That is fundamentally swept away by this knowledge revolution," Ross said.
Ross is not a stranger to politics. He has served as a state senator, the commerce director under Gov. James Blanchard, and as president of the University's chapter of the College Democrats while a student. He also served as assistant secretary of labor to President Clinton until a year and a half ago. He currently teaches at the University's School of Public Policy.
In creating an agenda for the future, Ross sought advice from hundreds of people with whom he has worked over the years.
Ross said his various colleagues stressed the importance of education when coping with new technology.
"We have to ask how we can make education after high school as routine as high school has been," Ross said.
Ross also said there is one more question the country must ask.
"How do we not leave anybody behind?" Ross asked. "If you don't become a learner, the game's over."
Ross said the first bills he would push as governor "would almost all be about education and learning."
Specific bills include giving every adult a debit card to purchase two years of post-secondary education. He also would make changes to school curriculum.
"I would like to give much more power to teachers in creating an environment that parents and students can choose from," Ross said.
He also would keep schools open all day and year round for students to use for extracurricular activities.
Another point Ross urged to the students at the College Democrats meeting is the importance of student involvement.
"You can become a political factor in elections," Ross said. "In most of our politics, you don't have a voice."
Some members of the University chapter of the College Democrats were pleased with Ross's call for student involvement.
"I think it's encouraging that political figures in the state are recognizing the importance students have in politics," said Chris Kaye, co-chair of the College Democrats of Michigan and the University chapter's newsletter editor.
In the first democratic primary poll, Ross led his top opponent, East Lansing attorney Larry Owen. Other Democratic candidates include state Sen. Jim Berryman (D-Adrian) and state Rep. James Agee (D- Muskegon).
Ross said his campaign must focus on issues, not attacks.
"It has to be around an agenda," Ross said. "It can't be negative."
Ross said he is hopeful about the election, especially with the possibility of Gov. John Engler not seeking a third term.