How to Fix It with John Avlon S2 Ep57: America Is Losing Faith in EVERYTHING (w/ Oliver Libby) | How to Fix It
Jan 4, 2026
Oliver B. Libby, an advocate for centrist policy and author of 'Strong Floor, No Ceiling,' joins the discussion on reviving the American Dream. He explores the erosion of trust in institutions since the Vietnam War, linking it to income inequality and stagnant wages. Libby advocates for a public healthcare option and innovative infrastructure solutions, emphasizing the need for better building practices and energy efficiency. His vision for a radical centrist approach aims to restore hope and opportunity in America.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Revive The American Dream
- The American Dream is fraying because people lack confidence institutions deliver opportunity.
- A 'strong floor, no ceiling' pairs a safety net with upward mobility to relight that belief.
Institutional Distrust Drives Instability
- Trust in institutions has eroded since Vietnam and Watergate, harming civic faith.
- Rising inequality and stagnant real wages make either a centrist reset or upheaval increasingly likely.
Inequality Undermines Meritocracy
- CEO pay has skyrocketed while worker pay barely budged, undermining belief in merit.
- Restoring opportunity requires investing in people's health, education, and purchasing power.
