Can't speak for the US, but I have no doubt that the same situation prevails on your side of the pond as it does here.
The corporate greed of a handful of people already obscenely wealthy, have driven Britain and Ireland (and the rest of Europe) to the brink of bancrupcy.
As usual in crises like these, it is education, health and employment, the essentials of living, that are effected the most and become the first targets for cuts which might - just might put right a little of the damage done.
Ireland's recent general election has indicated that 'ordinary' people are no longer prepared to bend over and be shafted by 'the great and the good' who are quite happy to facilitate the shafting. Probably won't do the trick, as Tweedledum has been replaced by Tweedledee, but at least the new lot are going to have to be a lttle careful where the put their feet - for a time, at lest.
Good luck Bob.
Jim Carroll