Obama on the issues

Health care

Obama's plan aims to provide universal coverage by 2012 and would expand eligibility for Medicaid and SCHIP. He would pay for this by allowing Bush's tax breaks to expire for people with annual incomes above $250,000.

National Journal: Divergent Paths • Obama’s positions

Iraq

As an Illinois state senator, he spoke publicly against the war. Obama has since objected to the troop surge, categorically ruled out permanent bases in Iraq and proposed a 16-month timetable for withdrawal of U.S. forces.

National Journal: The Fulcrum • Obama’s positions

Energy/Environment

Obama backs ambitious legislation to cut U.S. global warming pollution 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050. Supports a cap-and-trade system and a "windfall profits" tax on oil companies.

National Journal: Shades of Green • Obama’s positions

Immigration

Supports the creation of a guest worker program, improved border security and a pathway to citizenship for those with no criminal record who pay a fine and back taxes and learn English.

National Journal: Shifting Borders • Obama’s positions

Economy

Has said he will make permanent Bush's tax cuts for those making less than $200,000 a year. In addition to a proposed yearly tax credit of $500 for individuals, Obama has called for a second economic stimulus package.

National Journal: Sharp Contrast • Obama’s positions

Ethics/Lobbying

Obama doesn't accept contributions from federal lobbyists or PACs. He has called for greater government transparency online, proposing that the government post Cabinet meetings, earmark sponsors and lobbying.

National Journal: Being Mr. Clean • Obama’s positions

National Security

Would deploy two additional brigades to Afghanistan and reserves the right to strike unilaterally at al-Qaida targets in Pakistan. Obama supports the eventual abolition of all nuclear weapons.

National Journal: Beyond Iraq • Obama’s positions

Gay Rights/Abortion

Obama says he will oppose any constitutional measure to overturn Roe v. Wade. He is in favor of efforts to expand the availability of contraceptives and supports the Employment Non-Discrimination Act.

National Journal: Social Schisms • Obama’s positions

Trade

Obama backed off his criticisms of NAFTA but says he would use future trade agreements to raise labor and environmental standards. Chastises the Bush administration for taking no action against Chinese currency manipulation.

National Journal: Trading Gibes • Obama’s positions

Education

Endorses the goals of No Child Left Behind but would use more measures than just standardized tests to gauge academic success. Opposes vouchers for private and religious schools. His plan would offer students who perform 100 hours of community service an annual $4,000 refundable tax credit for college.

National Journal: Class President • Obama’s positions

Key Staffers