Does hard work really pay off? Americans appear to be growing even more pessimistic about the job market and their chances of ever getting ahead. A new Rasmussen Reports survey finds that only 26% of adults believe it’s still possible for just about anyone in America to work hard and get rich, down from 33% two years ago. While 58% don’t think a good work ethic will pay off, 46% still feel it’s possible for anyone in the United States to work their way out of poverty; 37% disagree and say it’s impossible. Other findings:
· 41% say it’s possible for anyone who really wants work to find a job; 45% don’t think finding work is that easy.
· More men than women believe anyone can work hard in America and get rich.
· 23% of adults say today’s children will be better off than their parents; 56% said no way.
· 75% think it’s at least “somewhat likely” that most of today’s younger workers will work past the traditional retirement age of 65; 47% say it’s “Very Likely.”
· 16% of Americans consider themselves working poor.
