Fact Check: "Working class jobs are coming back to America"
What We Know
The claim that "working class jobs are coming back to America" has been supported by various reports and statements from government officials. For instance, a report from the U.S. Department of Labor highlighted that 228,000 jobs were added in March 2025, including 13,000 in construction and more in transportation and manufacturing (source-1). Furthermore, projections suggest that America's manufacturing industry is expected to add approximately 3.8 million new jobs by 2033 (source-6).
However, there are significant challenges in the labor market. As of June 2025, about 400,000 manufacturing jobs remain unfilled, indicating a mismatch between available jobs and the workforce's willingness or ability to fill them (source-3). This suggests that while jobs may be created, the actual return of working-class jobs may not be as straightforward as it appears.
Analysis
The assertion that working-class jobs are returning can be seen as partially true. On one hand, the job growth figures presented by the Department of Labor indicate a positive trend in job creation, particularly in sectors traditionally associated with working-class employment, such as construction and manufacturing. The 3.8 million projected new manufacturing jobs also suggest a potential resurgence in this sector (source-6).
On the other hand, the difficulty in filling existing manufacturing jobs raises questions about the sustainability of this job growth. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a significant shortfall of qualified workers, which could hinder the effectiveness of policies aimed at revitalizing manufacturing (source-3). Additionally, experts like Gordon Hanson from Harvard Kennedy School argue that the focus on manufacturing jobs may overlook broader issues affecting the working class, such as the need for good-paying jobs across various sectors, not just manufacturing (source-2).
The sources of information vary in reliability. The Department of Labor is a credible source for employment statistics, while NPR and The New York Times provide critical analysis and context, although they may have their own editorial biases. The projections from industry reports are also valuable but should be viewed with caution, as they are based on future estimates that can change based on economic conditions.
Conclusion
The claim that working-class jobs are coming back to America is partially true. While there is evidence of job growth in sectors traditionally associated with working-class employment, significant challenges remain, particularly in filling these positions. The overall job market dynamics suggest that while opportunities may be increasing, the actual return of working-class jobs will depend on addressing the underlying issues of workforce readiness and economic conditions.
