Only 6% of Americans are optimistic about the economy and the future.
Specifically, I’d like to separate out government and union folks and look for differences. Of course, given the past year, a lot of them may have lost some optimism. The Wisconsin union smackdown should have been an eye-opener.
World's Only Rational Man 
You know, I have not been overly optimistic, but I just found out some interesting information that has turned me into more of a cynic. And it has nothing to do with Unions.
There are loan modification programs out there for people who are in default, that is, missing at least 3 payments. But, if you have never missed a payment, and suddenly you find yourself in a pickle due to losing your job, there is no help to be had. You have to become a slacker to get help. I just find that astounding.
Same with any credit card debt. If you call them and you tell them you are unemployed and cannot make any payment… they will not lower the payments or interest, nor will they help you until you are 6 months behind. And then, it’s too late. They sell your debt and the buyers of the debt will threaten and harass you even though it is against the FCRA. I feel sorry for those who keep trying to make good and then get the shaft. It’s just not right. Yes, it’s a double-edged sword….buy a house, run up debt and pay it all as long as there is a job…then, lose that and still try to do what you can and you get effed…It doesn’t seem right for those who still want to shoulder their burdens.
And the people who should not have had in the first place are getting all the help they need….where is the sense?
It makes sense when you realize the Ruling Class wants everyone dependent on them. If you’re willing to kneel before their authority they’ll do a lot for you. Well, they’ll use government force to make us do a lot for them. Charitable, they’re not.