The "working class" in America includes both the "working poor" and the "middle class". In other words, 90% of the American populace. Workers in the US have been screwed forever, but particularly since 1980. It has been a focused disadvantage since Ronald Reagan, but both parties have participated in deregulation and trade policies that favored big business, and tax policies that favor the "investment class" - those with significant enough assets to earn substantial portions of their income from investments. (Full disclosure, I am one of them.)
The "playing field" tilted decidedly with "trickle down" economics and the deliberate devaluation of labor, including open hostility toward unions and social safety-net programs. Voters have been sold a false bill of goods, and, sadly, bought into it big time. Derisive terminology and divisive politics have become the rule.
But here's the reality: we have lots in common. Black lives do matter, and most people recognize injustice when they see it. Immigrants want what we all want, and are willing to start from the bottom to get there (as long as they can start). We all want as much freedom as we can get within safe borders and with security if we stumble. (It's easier to strive if there is a net to catch you - even Donald Trump has relied on the safety net to make it.) Everyone wants to get ahead and wants a fair shot at getting there.
That is where the focus should be this election year (and every election year). That is what made America great, and what will allow us to lead in the future. What we need is leaders who recognize that.
