The 2024 Democratic National Convention was a spectacle filled with rhetoric around the middle class and the goal of creating an “opportunity economy.” But what does that actually mean for millions of Americans concerned about the cost of housing, childcare, gas and groceries in their communities?

Host Kai Wright is joined by Today, Explained co-host Noel King to talk through her reporting on the DNC and how it was received by residents in its host city. They take a look at the differences between the conversations inside the convention hall and those happening in Chicago’s poorest neighborhoods.

Then, they speak with Kimberly Adams, Marketplace’s senior Washington correspondent and co-host of the podcast Make Me Smart, to hear about how the Trump and Harris campaigns are framing their abilities to strengthen the U.S. economy. Plus, they examine how much our feelings about inflation, the housing market and more could impact election results in November.

Tell us what you think. We're @noteswithkai on Instagram and X (Twitter). Email us at notes@wnyc.org. Send us a voice message by recording yourself on your phone and emailing us, or record one here.

Notes from America airs live on Sundays at 6 p.m. ET. The podcast episodes are lightly edited from our live broadcasts.

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Notes from America with Kai Wright