Americans remain overwhelmingly focused on the economy and are becoming increasingly negative about the national economic outlook, particularly among working-class and lower-income Americans. New research by the Center for American Progress highlights how a solid majority of Americans either view themselves as, or aspire to be, middle class. By illustrating how progressive economic policies will help grow the middle class and offer more Americans the security and stability of a middle-class life, progressives can build a clearer and more compelling picture of the kind of economy they aim to create. The research underscores that the keys to growing the middle class are investing in the American people and lowering costs such as health care, housing, and child care.