America's middle class is in flux, according to a poll administered by the Allstate-National Journal Heartland Monitor. The survey revealed how many U.S. residents consider themselves middle class (a resounding 85%), as well as the general sentiment regarding status, business, and the country's economic recovery.
Since November, the percentage of general respondents believing the U.S. is heading "in the right direction" has sunk from 41% to 29%. This sentiment includes a mere 32% of individuals identifying as middle class. Among self-identified middle-class U.S. residents, 59% are also worried about slipping lower than their economic status. Meanwhile, 55% of Americans believe the country's big banks are making things worse, while 54% believe CEOs have a hand in damaging the economy as well.
Allstate's CEO, Thomas Wilson, believes the poll to be an accurate indicator of the U.S. economy. "Today," he stated, Americans "are sounding the alarm bell that the economy is not on track for sustainable growth." He added: "More affordable college education, job creation, and stability are seen as key priorities. ... We should listen and act now."
