Congress is in the process of putting together a $700 billion plan to bail out Wall Street. Regardless of how we got to this point, the circumstances call for dramatic action to safeguard our economy and provide for the security of millions of Americans currently at risk. Tell your senators and representative that, as they address the crisis on Wall Street, they must also consider the needs of those living on Main Street.

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

I am deeply concerned about the current economic situation on Wall Street. I strongly believe that any taxpayer bailout must be balanced with economic relief for ordinary Americans dealing with the consequences of Wall Street's conduct and the government's own inaction.

Greed and irresponsibility on Wall Street, and lack of sufficient oversight in Washington, have led to the serious financial crisis facing our nation. Because the jobs, savings and economic security of millions of Americans are at stake, dramatic action must be taken. As you work toward resolution of this issue, I hope that you will be guided by the following principles:

* Congress must not write a blank check or give broad authority to the Secretary of the Treasury to deal with the current crisis. In order to regain the trust and confidence of all taxpayers, lawmakers must establish an independent board to administer the bailout program and make it subject to congressional oversight.

* At a time when taxpayers are being asked to take unprecedented steps to shore up our financial system, it is only reasonable that we require the institutions benefiting from this lifeline to help homeowners keep their homes. Individuals and families facing foreclosure should be given an opportunity to restructure their loans and a pathway to remain in their homes.

* The final agreement also must include an economic recovery package that protects vulnerable citizens and recognizes the fiscal challenges facing state and local governments that provide essential services to their residents.

* Finally, current financial regulations must be strengthened, and we must renew our commitment to hold our financial institutions accountable with the public's money. In an era of stagnant wages and growing income inequality, Americans will not tolerate the continuation of a system where Wall Street speculators can ruin our economy and be rescued, while the rest of the country suffers.

Thank you for considering my views.

Please tell me where you stand on this issue.

Sincerely,

Campaign Launched:
September 23, 2008