In the face of rising inflation and economic pressures, many Americans are turning to multiple jobs to make ends meet. A recent report highlighted that as of August 2024, 5.3% of U.S. workers, translating to approximately 8.5 million people, held more than one job [e82d80bd]. This trend is particularly evident among younger workers and those in lower-wage sectors. For instance, Zackree Kline, a 21-year-old from York, Pennsylvania, works 60 hours a week across a diner and a funeral home. He has been juggling two jobs for three and a half years, managing only five hours of sleep each night while supporting his family and recently purchasing a home [e82d80bd]. Kline's support for Donald Trump stems from his experiences with the current economic conditions, which he feels have made it necessary for him to work multiple jobs [e82d80bd].
Similarly, Brianna Smith, a middle school math teacher, supplements her income by working an additional 12 to 25 hours a week at a supermarket. This dual employment is essential for her financial stability, reflecting a broader trend where educators and service workers are increasingly seeking extra hours to cope with rising living costs [e82d80bd]. Gary Jones, 58, balances his responsibilities as a YMCA maintenance worker with a job at a parcel delivery warehouse, showcasing the diverse backgrounds of those taking on multiple roles [e82d80bd].
The economic landscape has been challenging, with inflation driving many to seek additional employment. A recent survey revealed that 61% of workers received a pay increase in the past year, down from 64% in 2023. However, 50% of those who received a raise feel their pay hasn't kept pace with inflation, indicating that while wages are increasing, they may not be sufficient to cover rising costs [cb9a71a9]. This situation is influencing voter sentiments as the 2024 election approaches, with candidates like Donald Trump gaining support from those struggling to navigate these economic hardships [e82d80bd]. Trump notably won York County with 60% of the vote in both the 2016 and 2020 elections, indicating a strong local support base that may be influenced by the current economic climate [e82d80bd].
In parallel, the U.S. Department of Labor's recent Employment Report for May indicated that 272,000 new jobs were added, surpassing expectations. However, the unemployment rate rose to 4%, highlighting potential challenges in the labor market despite solid job growth [b072a649]. The report also noted that the leisure and hospitality sectors accounted for a significant portion of job creation, reflecting ongoing recovery efforts post-pandemic [545618be].
Moreover, the rise in multiple jobholders is not unique to the U.S. In Australia, a record 974,000 people held more than one job as of March 2024, driven by similar economic pressures such as rising interest rates and cost-of-living concerns [5e35995d]. This trend underscores a global phenomenon where workers are increasingly compelled to seek additional income sources to maintain their living standards amidst economic uncertainty [5e35995d].