SUMMARY
This memo argues that the path to transformational change leads to and through the middle class. While progressives have long seen themselves as champions of the middle class, the middle class has not felt the same way, if historic election results are any proxy of their sentiment.
To reach the middle class, progressives must understand the economic circumstances and psyche of the middle class. This memo summarizes three conclusions:
- The term “middle class” –not “working families”—describes how most Americans see themselves.
- Many current government programs miss the middle class.
- The middle class is preternaturally optimistic.
