First published 2012
Political strategist James Carville and pollster Stan Greenberg examine how America's middle class has been systematically abandoned. They argue that both Washington politicians and Wall Street financiers have created a system where labor lacks value, college costs spiral beyond reach, and hard work yields diminishing returns. The authors alternate their perspectives to demonstrate how political parties have failed ordinary Americans and must acknowledge these shortcomings. Carville and Greenberg contend that challenging wealthy elites represents survival rather than class conflict. They identify specific government failures, including White House missteps, while outlining concrete actions voters can pursue. The book presents controversial positions on legislative priorities and political strategy for the coming administration. Written during the 2012 election cycle, their analysis targets the systematic devaluation of middle class aspirations and economic security.
Genres: business, american, political-science, economics, non-fiction, 21st-century
Vibes: intimate, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Period: 2012 Election Cycle
336 pages · Hardcover · Blue Rider Press