Five steps to make America competitive (and reduce the debt)

1. Raise the age for first payout of Social Security 5 years.
Justification: we're living and working longer. Companies should grant senior employees (60+) two weeks of leave without pay, in addition to leave with pay. This would save tons of money as the U.S. population ages. Allow hardship exemptions.

2. Initiate a carbon tax, starting low and increasing.
Justification: It will raise revenue immediately, it can fund renewable energy and efficiency programs, reducing our dependence on foreign oil imports and improving national security.

3. Allow states widespread implementation of red-light and speed cameras
Justification: Raises revenue for roads that is decreasing due to increased energy efficiency (lower gas tax revenues), and increases safety. Get bad drivers that drive up insurance rates for
everyone off the roads. Also get aggressive drivers that kill and injure people off the roads.

4. Initiate a Civilian Conservation Corps again
Justification: Create jobs right now (yes, government but temporary) to perform jobs necessary but unglamourous: cleaning parklands, national and state park maintenance, infrastructure inspections and repairs (roads, sidewalks, staircases, etc.), wastewater treatment mechanisms (such as rain gardens and stormwater catchments). Creates a resume-building job for people that want to work, and helps preserve our natural environment, and public health.

5. Legalize and tax marijuana nationwide
Justification: lots of money, especially since the FDA is targeting tobacco, which currently still provides a lot of revenue, and besides, it's unethical to fund government on the backs of addicts.