As others have pointed out, topical issues were heavily disguised as allegories and usually weren't explicitly called out. I agree the original show didn't delve deeply into social commentary but it doesn't mean the new one won't include such elements - the temptation must be there given recent history. The new show must have a different dynamic to distinguish itself from the old one and give itself some vitality. My guess might well turn out to be incorrect but that won't be the first time I've been wrong.
I agree. Important thing though is your still going to be seeing a show I suspect about teenagers so having them all see the modern world from that perspective. Also avoid the easy cliches. This show won't be the first show that tries to be socially relevant and they don't always work. I want more shows that try and subvert expections. I would make the watcher from the American South for example and have the big bad who starts the season off working with the heros's and you think she or he is noble and great. Someone might on the surface even be the kindest person around. Stuff like that.
Jason