The widening gulf of America's rich and poor -- census

[Elmore Furth]

The recent census has highlighted the worsening economic situation of people at the bottom of the economy.

MOUNT VERNON, N.Y. — A Wall Street adviser leaves early for work to avoid panhandlers at his suburban train station. In coal country, a suddenly homeless man watches from a bench as wealthy women shop for dresses. A down-and-out waitress sits glumly on her stoop across the street from a gleaming suburb. A freshly elected politician loses his day job.

They're the faces of a census report released this week showing that the gap between the richest and poorest Americans is wider than ever.

The recession technically ended in the middle of last year, but the numbers can't tell the whole story. The census report translates to stories of impatience, resignation and hopelessness for those who are living it across the country.

The data showed that the top-earning 20 percent of Americans — those making more than $100,000 each year — received 49.4 percent of all income. The bottom 20 percent took in just 3.4 percent of income.

Americans tread water in gulf between rich and poor

[westerebus]

1. Where's the leadership?

There are millions of people waiting for change.

So far...

Until something gives way.

And if it gives way to the anger and frustration and injustice..Crimes go unpunished...Greed abounds..

The more radicalized people become in their thinking.

This does not a democracy make.

[stevebreeze]

2. I am sure you have been paying attention to this but...

it seems "democracy" lately has been for sale to the highest bidder. Thanks citizens united!