The Legacy of the New Deal

Criticism Right wing: Left wing: Gives fed government too much power and regulates business too tightly. “Court packing” plan: Can the president manipulate the Supreme Court?? Alarming deficit spending Left wing: It was insufficient help- wealth needed to shift from rich to working class. Some wanted to nationalize banks and inflate currency Others wanted government welfare checks for the elderly. Many New Deal measures were later struck down by the Supreme Court.

Security and Strength Wagner Act est. National Labor Relations Board. Gave workers right to union protection Unions are regularly recognized by companies. Social Security One of the most important pieces of legislation in US history. Comes out of payroll taxes; workers receive $$ because they pay into it. They have a legal, moral, and political right to it. Gov’t responsible for people who cannot work.

The New Democrats Democratic Party has a new platform: African Americans Women Farmers Workers Immigrants Progressives Intellectuals/Academics Redefined “liberalism”: Less laissez-faire, more regulation. Civil liberties improve lives of individuals.

New Role of Government The Depression was a major turning point: New Deal New relationship between government and American people. State governments look to federal government for more funding. Gave Americans sense of security that gov could work on their behalf. “broker state”- government can resolve conflicts between groups? Safety net- government can provide safeguards and relief.