Democrats need to employ a big tenant approach and work with Liberals, Progressives, Activists Groups and Organized Labor to beat back conservative principles and the republican party that turns them into law. 

Look at the Numbers

Only 18% of individual Americans make more than $100,000 a year, according to 2023 data from careers website Zippia. About 34% of U.S. households earn more than $100,000 a year, according to Zippia. 

Here’s how much you need to earn to live comfortably in major U.S. cities – CBS News 

Taxpayers are paying for this…

The highest pension among all retirees went to the recently retired Chief of Department, John Sudnik, who was eligible for $385,179 after retiring in July of 2023. The next-highest eligible pensions went to:  

• Patrick Mcevoy, Former Captain, $364,162  

• Mark Ferran, Former Deputy Chief, $355,230  

• James McNally, Former Deputy Chief, $337,267  

• Michael Vecchi, Former Associate Commissionner, $318,071 

 The figures include benefits from an optional program that allows members to make extra contributions to the plan, and the pension fund’s “Variable Supplement Fund,” a $12,000 payment to uniformed employees also known as “the Christmas bonus.”  

The pensions are constitutionally guaranteed by New York taxpayers and are exempt from New York state income tax. New York City government retirees, including firefighters, also receive city healthcare coverage at no cost.  

Average New NYC Fire Pensions Surpass $150k – Empire Center for Public Policy. 

In recent years, the American middle class has been shrinking, leaving many families struggling to make ends meet and achieve the American dream of financial stability and security. This decline in the middle class can be attributed to a variety of factors, including the weakening of labor unions and the policies enacted by the Trump administration. In order to save the middle class and preserve the American dream for future generations, it is crucial for Democrats and unions to work together to advocate for policies that support working families and promote economic equality.

One of the main reasons for the shrinking middle class is the decline in union membership and power. Unions play a crucial role in advocating for fair wages, benefits, and working conditions for their members, which in turn helps to ensure a strong and stable middle class. However, over the past few decades, union membership has been on the decline, largely due to anti-union laws and policies that have made it more difficult for workers to organize and collectively bargain for their rights. By working together to support and strengthen labor unions, Democrats and unions can help to protect the middle class from further erosion.

In addition to the weakening of unions, the policies enacted by the Trump administration have also had a detrimental impact on the middle class. The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, for example, primarily benefited the wealthiest Americans and large corporations, while providing little to no relief for middle-class families. These policies have only served to further exacerbate income inequality and make it harder for working families to achieve financial stability. In order to reverse this trend and promote prosperity for all Americans, Democrats and unions must come together to advocate for policies that prioritize the needs of the middle class.

One of the key issues facing the middle class is the rising cost of living, including housing, healthcare, and education. Many middle-class families are finding it increasingly difficult to afford these basic necessities, leaving them trapped in a cycle of debt and financial insecurity. By working together, Democrats and unions can push for policies that address these challenges and ensure that all Americans have access to affordable housing, healthcare, and education.

Another important issue affecting the middle class is the lack of job security and economic opportunity. With the rise of automation and globalization, many traditional middle-class jobs are disappearing, leaving workers at risk of unemployment or underemployment. By supporting policies that promote job creation, worker protections, and economic growth, Democrats and unions can help to ensure that all Americans have the opportunity to earn a decent living and achieve their full potential.

Furthermore, Democrats and unions must also address the issue of income inequality, which has reached historic levels in recent years. The wealthiest Americans continue to amass more wealth and power, while the middle class struggles to make ends meet. By advocating for progressive tax policies, fair wages, and social safety nets, Democrats and unions can help to level the playing field and ensure that all Americans have a fair shot at success.

Another important aspect of saving the middle class and preserving the American dream is investing in infrastructure and public services. By rebuilding our roads, bridges, schools, and parks, we can create good-paying jobs and stimulate economic growth. Additionally, by expanding access to affordable healthcare, childcare, and higher education, we can help to ensure that all Americans have the tools they need to succeed in the 21st century economy.

Moreover, Democrats and unions must also address the issue of climate change, which poses a significant threat to the livelihoods of working families. By supporting policies that promote clean energy, sustainable development, and environmental justice, we can create new opportunities for green jobs and protect the health and well-being of all Americans. By working together to address these interconnected challenges, Democrats and unions can help to build a more equitable and sustainable future for all.

In conclusion, saving the middle class and preserving the American dream requires a concerted effort from Democrats and unions to advocate for policies that support working families, promote economic equality, and create opportunities for all Americans to succeed. By working together to address the root causes of income inequality, job insecurity, and rising costs of living, we can help to ensure that the middle class remains strong and vibrant for generations to come. It is time for Democrats and unions to come together and fight for a more just and prosperous future for all Americans.

CALL TO ACTION

RESIDENTS OF NEW YORK DESERVE TO HAVE A POLICE AND FIRE DEPARTMENT THAT SHARES THE SAMES MORALS AND VALUES OF THE PEOPLE THEY SERVE

REGISTERED DEMOCRATS, MEMBERS OF THE DEMOCRATIC COUNTY PARTY, DISTRICT LEADERS, STATE COMMITTEE MEMBERS & COUNTY CHAIRS NEED TO DEMAND NYPD & FDNY SUPPORT THE PRINCIPLES THAT MAKE NEW YORK GREAT

DEMOCRATS HOLDING PUBLIC OFFICE IN NEW YORK NEED TO STOP USING POLITICAL CAPITAL ON SERVING THE NEEDS OF DEPARTMENTS THAT DON’T APPRECIATE THE SUPPORT AND USE THAT CAPITAL TO PROTECT THE MIDDLE CLASS AND SERVE THE LESS 

IF POLICE OFFICERS & FIREFIGHTERS WANT TO VOTE FOR AND SUPPORT REPUBLICANS WHO STOP FUNDING 9/11 FUNDS DEMOCRATS SHOULDN’T RESCUE THEM… THEY SHOULD CALL JOHN STEWART

#WAKEUPDEMS

#YOUGETWHATYOUVOTEFOR

#CALLJOHNSTEWART