The U.S. affordability crisis has been growing for 45 years due to low pay and high prices. Here are some strategies for tackling it by increasing low pay that can be done at the state and local levels now. Unfortunately, Trump administration policies are exacerbating the crisis.

The U.S. affordability crisis is multifaceted and has been growing for 45 years, caused by low pay and high prices. Many factors have been depressing workers’ pay including the failure to raise the minimum wage, the weakening of unions, globalization, gig work, and reduced competition for workers.

2025 was a horrible year for American democracy. However, many good things did happen; here are some of them. Let’s keep up the activism and resistance in 2026. And let’s get out to vote and get everyone we know out to vote. That will make it a much better year than 2025 was. Happy New Year!

Americans are worried about the cost of living. Government policies can increase the pay and benefits they get, as well as reduce the cost of living. If Democrats want support and votes, they should unequivocally advocate for policies that would improve the affordability of everyday life.

An American oligarchy has battled for control of our country. There are signs of a resurgence of democracy and progressive policies, including a resurgence of unions, campaign finance reforms, and growing resistance to the Trump administration. We, the American people, can defeat the oligarchy.