In a stark reflection of the nation's current economic sentiment, a Wall Street Journal poll of 1,200 registered voters has unveiled a deep-seated pessimism about the state of the American Dream and the fairness of the country's economic and political systems.

The survey, conducted last month, revealed that a mere 2% of Americans perceive the economy as excellent—a figure humorously speculated to include optimistic economists like Paul Krugman. A further 33% rated the economy as good, leaving an overwhelming two-thirds of the populace with a negative view.

The poll also investigated perceptions of lifestyle changes over the last half-century, finding that a significant portion of Americans believe life has deteriorated compared to 50 years ago. Similarly, when questioned about the economic and political systems being rigged against the average person, a majority agreed.

Most tellingly, when asked about the American Dream—defined as the belief that hard work will lead to advancement—only 36% felt it still holds true, with 63% expressing the view that it either never did or no longer does.

In response to this grim diagnosis of American confidence, the Washington Examiner published an editorial deriding the disillusioned majority as "pathetic defeatists" and admonishing them to cease their "crybaby" complaints. The Examiner's piece contrasted today's conditions with the 1970s, when inflation and unemployment rates were high but government dependency was lower, and neglected to acknowledge the social and health crises of the present.

The editorial failed to account for the widespread community failures, soaring rates of non-marital births—up from 18% in 1980 to nearly half today— the mental health epidemic with 30% of Americans clinically depressed, and record-breaking suicide rates, particularly among older men.

Furthermore, the Examiner's critique overlooked the decline in generational wealth, noting that in the past children often achieved double the wealth of their parents, a reality that has evaporated for many millennials.

The disconnect between the electorate's distress and the elite's indifference is palpable. In a democracy, the appropriate reaction to widespread discontent should be a rigorous examination of the underlying causes. However, as the Examiner's scornful commentary illustrates, there is a trend of elite condescension in the face of declining real incomes, mounting debt, and the erosion of economic stability for future generations.

As the nation grapples with these challenges, the call for a more responsive and empathetic governance grows louder. Our eyes remain open, and we will continue to monitor the situation closely.