In "What Does the Working Class Really Want?" George Packer explores the complex dynamics surrounding the working class in American politics. Packer highlights the elusive quest for a permanent majority by both Democrats and Republicans, emphasizing the challenges of understanding and addressing the desires of the working class. He notes historical shifts in party alignments, from LBJ's landslide in 1964 to the conservative ascendancy under Reagan, illustrating the ongoing struggle for dominance. Packer argues that recent history has been marked by a failure of would-be realigners, as both major parties grapple with a sense of political stalemate and engage in what he calls "magical thinking." Democrats pursue a majority through demographic targeting, assuming monolithic positions on issues among identity groups, while Republicans resort to antidemocratic means such as gerrymandering and the Electoral College to maintain power. There are two major trends shaping contemporary politics: the education polarization within the electorate and the dominance of cultural and social issues over economic concerns. Packer links these trends to a historical shift away from the bipartisan support for neoliberal economics in the late 20th century. He emphasizes that the working class, often overlooked, now holds the key to political power, as seen in the newfound focus on essential workers during the pandemic.

David Leonhardt's book, "Ours Was the Shining Future: The Story of the American Dream," provides a comprehensive analysis of the economic decline and political migration of the American working class. Leonhardt identifies political action, a civic ethos, and public spending as crucial elements in creating an economy that benefits the majority. The decline of social justice within the labor movement and the shift in progressive politicians' priorities away from working-class issues are highlighted as contributing factors to the erosion of the American dream. Packer critiques the progressive narrative that attributes the white working class's political shift solely to racial issues. Instead, he supports Leonhardt's argument that cultural and economic alienation from the Democratic Party plays a significant role. The article emphasizes the impact of immigration policies on working-class attitudes and advocates for a nuanced understanding of the cultural values influencing different socioeconomic groups.

The article reviews various books that propose solutions to the Democrats' working-class problem. While some argue for a return to New Deal-style economic liberalism, others, like Joshua Green, see hope in a Democratic renewal led by figures such as Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders. However, Packer expresses skepticism about reverting to past economic models and suggests that addressing the working class's concerns requires a nuanced approach that considers both economic and cultural factors. Packer contends that the working class is not a puzzle to be solved for political advantage but a diverse constituency whose well-being is essential for the overall health of the country. He calls for a more nuanced understanding of the working class and a departure from the divisive politics that have characterized recent years.