To the Point

Census Finds Almost Half the Country Poor or 'Near-Poor'

A new study finds that nearly half of all Americans are either poor or "low income." Meanwhile, consumers who were saving appear once again to be heaping on the debt.

By James Rainey • Dec 27, 2011 • 50m Listen

A new study from the US Census Bureau suggests that nearly half of all Americans are either poor or "low income," a group some call the "near poor." Meanwhile, consumers who were saving at the beginning of the great recession, appear once again to be heaping on the debt. What's become of the middle class? Without government assistance, would the ranks of the poor be even larger? Also, last-minute campaigning in Iowa, and members of Congress keep getting richer, while their constituents lose ground. Jim Rainey guest hosts. (Thanks to KCRW volunteer Gideon Brower for special production assistance today.)

Banner image: People wait in line to receive free milk in New York City. Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images

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To the Point

Census Finds Almost Half the Country Poor or 'Near-Poor'

A new study finds that nearly half of all Americans are either poor or "low income." Meanwhile, consumers who were saving appear once again to be heaping on the debt.

Share

To the Point

Census Finds Almost Half the Country Poor or 'Near-Poor'

A new study finds that nearly half of all Americans are either poor or "low income." Meanwhile, consumers who were saving appear once again to be heaping on the debt.

Share