A grim warning that the U.S. political system is failing most Americans economically, bad news for ordinary workers squeezed by rising costs.

• The core claim: American democracy itself is at risk, and fixing the economy means fixing the political system first.
• Strong economic growth over recent years has barely reached regular people's pockets.
• Inequality is near the highest levels ever seen in the country.
• Everyday costs — gas, healthcare, and especially housing — are keeping people from affording the life they expected, like buying a home.

Outlook: The argument is that recovery is possible but only through major political reform, with no quick fix in sight.