Among the thorny questions they tackled:

–Does our government have any responsibility to provide for its people beyond the common defense?

–Does citizenship carry with it any economic “rights”? If so, would healthcare be one? If so, how much healthcare, and at what price and cost to us all?

–If any such obligations exist, are they fundamental rights, or just programs that may be more or less desirable and affordable at any given time?

“We found that how you interpret such questions will influence how you feel about what is to be done,” said Mr. Stewart, on an interactive CD-ROM about the conference produced by the Institute. “Not only expertise, but experience and belief, will affect your view of how the social contract is to be revised, renewed, and/or remade.”

He went on to ask: “Will it follow the direction of the New Deal with new codicils–a sort of “New Deal Plus”? Or will it set out on another course, perhaps breaking new ground based on different core beliefs?”

These are all very critical questions, and voters should demand answers from all of 2008's presidential candidates–from both parties. They make up the bread and butter issues confronting voters of all ages.

People everywhere are worried about how they will ever afford to retire? Whether a sudden illness could bankrupt them? If they'll have adequate long-term care?

All these questions should be addressed during the next presidential election–along with how to achieve greater energy independence, better protect the environment and deal with the looming threat of terrorism, all while keeping our budget in balance and our economy growing.

I hope to see our next president outline how they intend to implement “The Next Deal” for all Americans during his (or her!) inauguration in January 2009. We can't afford to avoid addressing these critical concerns any longer, and both insurance companies and producers can be at the forefront in providing solutions.

What do you folks make of all this? What kind of “Next Deal” are you looking for from your government?

Note: I was not at the actual meeting, so cannot report on the dialogue that went on. In fact, I found out only recently that it was even held, when I did an exit interview with Gordon Stewart before he left the Institute.

However, if anyone wants more details, the Insurance Information Institute provided me with a DVD offering text and video highlights. Copies are available for interested parties by calling 800-331-9146. Loretta Worters, v.p. of communications, tells me there's no charge (including shipping and handling), unless you order bulk orders.