Question

The working poor and underclass together account for approximately what percentage of the US population?

1) 10%
2) 20%
3) 30%
4) 40%

Answer 1

The combined percentage of the working poor and underclass in the U.S. would be at a higher end of the provided percentages, considering the poverty rate has not been less than 11% and has reached 15.9%.

Step-by-step explanation:

Based on the provided information, the U.S. poverty rate has fluctuated over the last several decades and has not been less than 11% of the population in any year for the last four decades, with peaks reaching as high as 15.9%. In 2009, the working poor included 10.4 million Americans according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Considering this data, the combined percentage of the working poor and underclass, or those below the poverty line, would suggest that the correct answer aligns with the higher end of the provided options.