Kathmandu— In a stark contrast to the American dream of a secure, long-term career, millions of workers across the United States are finding themselves in a dead-end economy, juggling multiple part-time jobs to make ends meet. This situation is exacerbated by policies under the Trump administration that have choked investment and killed growth, leaving many workers feeling defeated and stuck.

Economic Policies Under Scrutiny

The Trump administration’s economic policies have been criticized for their impact on the job market. On-again, off-again trade policies have injected uncertainty into the economy, killing investment and jobs. Additionally, hundreds of thousands of federal workers were fired, and next-generation manufacturing grants were stripped away or rolled back. These actions have been compounded by attacks on labor rights, making it harder for workers to join unions and fight for better pay, benefits, and working conditions.

Worker Struggles and Multifaceted Employment

The reality for many workers is a far cry from the traditional American dream. According to a Cash App study, about 54 million Americans now draw incomes from multiple sources, up from 41 million in 2024. This trend has led to a shift away from the ‘steady, predictable paycheck’ towards income arriving in dribs and drabs. Gene Ludwig, an analyst, concluded that nearly 25 percent of Americans are ‘functionally unemployed,’ highlighting the extent of the issue. One woman, who works 10 jobs between her and her husband, struggles to raise five kids and pay the bills, illustrating the harsh reality faced by many.

Government Response and Unemployment Rates

The official unemployment rate of 4.1 percent in July measures only those who are unemployed and looking for work, failing to capture the plight of those working part-time against their will. This gerrymandered view of the economy makes conditions appear healthier than they are. The government’s response has been criticized for ignoring so-called ‘income stackers’ like these workers, leaving them without the support they need. The lack of suitable outlets for their skills and the absence of adequate income have led to a sense of defeat and stagnation among many workers.

The current administration faces significant criticism for its role in exacerbating the dead-end economy, with little support offered to those struggling to find stable, long-term employment. The future of the American workforce hangs in the balance as the nation grapples with this economic challenge.

(With inputs from CounterPunch)

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Originally published on abcnews.com.np.