“The Neoliberal consensus, a.k.a. the Tweedledum and Tweedledee of the Republicans and Democrats on all but culture war issues, has, in my view, broken down chiefly because of economic pressures. The desperation in certain parts of the country, especially the 'rust belt,' and the hollowing out of rural America, as well as static or even declining incomes in real terms for 80% of the population was the tinder. Digital technologies provided the match.”

“A sense that the Democratic establishment has lost touch with working-class economic realities, leading to frustration among voters who feel the party no longer represents their material interests.”

71% of Americans believe that “the system is rigged.” This mindset reflects widespread suspicion that institutions are manipulated by powerful elites. Many in this group view “system rigging” as meaning that access to opportunity is biased, laws are enforced unequally, and political influence is concentrated—making fundamental change feel out of reach.

“Belief in the American dream vs. believing the American dream is no longer possible.” Response to the question “Present: What emerging worldviews or belief systems are you encountering in your work that could reshape political identities? How are democratic institutions adapting (or failing to adapt) to these changes?”

“Americans take a consumerism approach to politics: they vote for those they like, feel good about, and take into consideration what they might gain (namely, economically) from the election of their candidate of choice.”

“A civil rights advocate said, ‘I think we need to start over economically and politically,’ describing a feeling that current structures serve the wealthy few and need resetting.”

“If there is backlash to the Neo-authoritarianism in the US, there could be a political realignment in favor of equity. If not, it may take 30 years to climb out of the anti-democracy moment. Alignment in either direction could center on how voters understand and act on economic equity.”

“If there is backlash to the Neo-authoritarianism in the US, there could be a political realignment in favor of equity. If not, it may take 30 years to climb out of the anti-democracy moment. Alignment in either direction could center on how voters understand and act on economic equity.”