What is the Center for American Progress?:
The Center for American Progress (CAP) is an influential American think tank based in Washington, DC. The liberal, progressive center engages in research and advocacy on policy issues. By their definition, a progressive is "...someone who is idealistic enough to believe that things can be better and pragmatic enough to get it done.
Background :
Founded in 2003 the center's self-described mission includes "developing a long term vision of a progressive America, providing a forum to generate new progressive ideas and policy proposals, responding effectively and rapidly to conservative proposals and rhetoric with a thoughtful critique and clear alternatives, and communicating progressive messages to the American public."
What Does the Center for American Progress Do?:
CAP's work is divided into three main categories: National Security, Domestic and Economy, and Media and Culture. Specific projects include Campus Progress, aiming to strengthen progressive voices on university and college campuses; Health Progress, dedicated to the development of a better American health care system; and Middle East Progress, articulating policies and solutions to standing Middle East issues. A daily electronic newsletter, The Progress Report, offers CAP's take on each day's news and events.
Party Lines?:
Led by former Clinton White House Chief of Staff John Podesta and with a staff that includes many former Clinton White House staff members, CAP is criticized by conservatives for being a mouthpiece of the Democratic Party.
Center for American Progress Funding:
Billionaire George Soros is widely believed to be part of CAP's initial funding. Guide Star works to create accountability and transparency among nonprofit organizations. Their report on the Center for American Progress and the related Center for American Progress Action Fund is available. A free registration is required.