We use new tools for building the middle class. We build a bridge to economic security through research, policy, and media work. See our recent successes . The trick for progressive policy activists is to turn the electoral rhetoric into meaningful public policy.
Middle class means policy that is broad, encompassing, universal, and majoritarian.
Policy that meets these criteria helps the powerless sub-classes of Americans while, and because, it creates and delivers benefits universally. This type of universal policy is most feared and despised by those who would like to tear down government programs and responsibilities and displace shared social welfare with private luck, individual wealth, and special privilege. It pushes their agenda of wedge issues to the margins of political debate. Universal policy does and should disproportionately benefit lower income Americans. That is what equity is all about.