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America’s Political Divide Shifts from Economics to Education: Fareed Zakaria
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By News
Published 5 months ago on
October 31, 2024

America’s political landscape is undergoing a major realignment, driven not by economics but by education and social divides. (AP File)

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Original opinion by Fareed Zakaria is found at The Washington Post.

America’s political landscape is undergoing a major realignment, driven not by economics but by education and social divides. President Joe Biden’s administration has focused on economic policies designed to uplift the working class.

However, polls indicate that his and Vice President Kamala Harris’ approval among working-class voters, particularly non-college-educated men, remains low. This signals a shift in traditional voting patterns.

Historically, economic status and race were key indicators of political affiliation. Today, education has emerged as a more significant predictor, splitting the electorate into educated, urban left and less-educated, rural right.

Democrats face challenges as increasing numbers of Black and Hispanic men are gravitating towards the Republican Party. Meanwhile, the Democratic elite remains focused on left-leaning cultural policies, often alienating non-college-educated voters. The right, while dealing with the polarizing influence of former President Donald Trump, is gaining ground among these groups.

This shift suggests that the divide in American politics is increasingly social rather than purely economic or racial, highlighting new cultural cleavages that are reshaping party bases. As both parties navigate these evolving dynamics, their strategies on cultural and social issues will play a critical role in the future of American politics.

Read the full opinion at The Washington Post.

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