Words: Edwards believes that the federal budget is “a moral document” that demonstrates our level of concern for poverty. He feels there should be more funds for education, health care, and defense. He argues that there is an asset gap in America that needs to be addressed: “The poorest 25% of American households have a negative net worth.” Most of his economic policies are geared toward working families and the poor.

Actions: Edwards voted AGAINST making national debt reduction a lower priority than tax cuts (2000).

More about: Budget & Spending, John Edwards.