The American Dream is crumbling for millions, and it’s not just a fleeting concern—it’s a growing crisis. Long-term unemployment is skyrocketing, leaving countless Americans like 41-year-old Emily Groveman trapped in a cycle of rejection and financial strain. For nearly two years, Emily has been tirelessly searching for work, her once-thriving career in hospitality and digital marketing now a distant memory. 'It’s been impossibly difficult,' she shares, her frustration echoing the plight of nearly 2 million others in the U.S. who’ve been jobless for at least 27 weeks—the highest number since the pandemic in 2022.
Emily’s story is a stark reminder of the brutal job market. Despite her extensive experience, including a decade with the NBA and six years leading a digital marketing team, she’s faced relentless setbacks. For one position, she endured 13 interviews with 11 different people, only to lose out to another candidate. 'I can’t keep doing this,' she admits, her resilience wearing thin. As rejections mount, so do her bills, forcing her to dip into her 401(k) just to get by.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Labor economist Teresa Ghilarducci points to economic uncertainty stemming from the White House as the primary culprit. Recent events like the government shutdown and a wave of global tariffs under the Trump administration have only added fuel to the fire. In early September, unemployment claims soared to 263,000—the highest since October 2021. Ghilarducci warns the job market won’t improve anytime soon, with more competition and hesitant employers creating a perfect storm for job seekers.
And this is the part most people miss: The American Dream’s core promise—work hard, succeed—feels increasingly hollow. Emily, once a believer in pulling herself up by her bootstraps, is now planning to leave the job hunt entirely. In December, she’ll move to a Buddhist temple in upstate New York, trading her career aspirations for free housing in exchange for work at a retreat center. 'If you have the ability to work, you should be able to,' she says, her voice tinged with both resignation and hope. 'But that’s not happening anymore.'
Is the American Dream still achievable, or is it a relic of the past? As long-term unemployment rises, this question becomes more urgent. What do you think? Is the system failing hardworking Americans, or is there still a path forward? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation that matters.
