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The 2000 to 2010 decade was a hard one for America’s and Washington’s working families. While the top fifth gained wealth despite two recessions and sharp stock market swings, for most people the dream of attaining the hallmarks of the American middle class grew further out of reach. Holding a steady job, owning a home, sending the kids to college, affording medical care, saving for a secure retirement, each generation having more opportunity than the previous – these now all seem like relics of the 20th century.

These three features tell the story of the Great Recession - explaining how some policy choices have increased inequality and are shrinking the American middle class.

The Fading Middle Class Dream - Working and playing by the rules provides no guarantee of achieving even a modicum of economic security today.

Growing Inequality - Who is gaining and who is losing income in Washington’s economy?

Who Is and Is Not Working? - A look at employment by gender, age and education.

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