Gen Z and the American Dream: A Broken Promise?

The American Dream, once a beacon of hope for generations, is increasingly out of reach for many young adults. Rising costs of living, stagnant wages, and a job market disrupted by artificial intelligence have made homeownership, financial stability, and starting a family seem like distant goals. In this report, 20-year-old Trinity Jackson shares her perspective: "We can't own a home when we're 25. We don't feel like we're in a place to bring children into the world if we can't pay our own student loans and pay off our own cars." For Jackson, the American Dream has been redefined as simply being debt-free by 30. Jackson spoke with Judy Woodruff about the challenges facing Gen Z, from student loan debt to the gig economy. The segment explores how economic shifts and technological changes have altered the traditional markers of adulthood. Many young people are delaying major life milestones, opting to rent longer, marry later, and have fewer children. The psychological toll is significant, with many feeling disillusioned and anxious about the future. The report also examines potential solutions, from policy interventions like student debt relief to corporate initiatives for affordable housing. It features interviews with economists, sociologists, and young adults navigating these turbulent times. Ultimately, it asks whether the American Dream can be revitalized for a new generation, or if it will remain a relic of the past.