Problem

Today, working people are squeezed while wages barely rise and basic costs soar. Corporate consolidation, union busting, low minimum wages, and weak labor laws strip workers of their power. Employers rely on part-time and gig work to deny benefits and organizing rights. The result: millions work multiple jobs but can’t afford basics, as CEO pay and profits soar.

Solution

To protect working people, we must overhaul the rules so workers gain real power: raise the national minimum wage and automatically adjust it to inflation; guarantee paid family and sick leave; ensure access to universal healthcare that is not tied to employment. Pass labor reforms such as the PRO Act to ban retaliation against organizers and secure fair bargaining. Extend labor protections to gig, part-time, domestic, and farm workers. Enforce wage-theft penalties, strengthen OSHA safety standards, and expand apprenticeship and training pathways so that all jobs lead to stability.

Bottom Line

A strong middle class is built by action—demanding fair wages, workplace safety, and bargaining power. Stand with workers by supporting organizing efforts, we must back labor protections, and push for real security for working families. It is time we fulfill our shared promise: If you work, you should live well.