Key facts
- 38% of working-class Americans say Democrats best represent them, while 32% say Republicans.
- Democrats are divided internally on how to appeal to working-class voters.
- Republicans are focused on retaining gains with working-class voters, citing economic concerns.
- A majority of Americans (59%) identify with the term 'working class,' but only 16% select it when given specific labels.
Both the Democratic and Republican parties are actively engaged in efforts to win over working-class voters, a demographic that remains closely divided between the two major political groups. Currently, 38 percent of those identifying as working class believe Democrats best represent their interests, compared to 32 percent who favor Republicans. Broadly, Americans are split, with 37 percent seeing Democrats as better representatives and 30 percent favoring Republicans.
Democrats are grappling with how to regain ground with these voters, facing an internal debate between progressive and moderate factions. Jim Kessler, executive vice president for policy at the think tank Third Way, noted that the party has struggled with the working class due to perceived out-of-touch cultural issues and insufficient economic support. Senator Bernie Sanders, a prominent progressive, stated that his wing of the party is effectively addressing the needs of working families, highlighting the lack of guaranteed healthcare in the U.S. as an issue resonating with working-class Republicans.
Republicans, meanwhile, are focused on consolidating the gains made by Donald Trump in 2024, particularly among Black and Latino voters who are reportedly frustrated with the Biden-era economy and rising cost of living. Former Ohio Republican Representative Jim Renacci suggested that working-class voters are unhappy with the current administration due to issues like the Iran war, gas prices, and food costs.
Adding complexity to both parties' strategies is the lack of a clear consensus on what defines 'working class.' While a majority of Americans (59%) broadly identify with the term, only 16 percent select 'working class' when presented with a list of socioeconomic labels.