Journalist and author Batya Ungar-Sargon has released a new article titled "Here Come the New Industrialists" through The Free Press, sparking discussion on the evolving landscape of American labor and economic power. Shared by Christian Garrett on social media, the piece appears to build on Ungar-Sargon's established critique of elite-driven economic policies and her advocacy for the working class. The article, published on July 21, 2025, suggests a re-evaluation of industrial and tangible labor in contrast to the "laptop class."
Ungar-Sargon, known for her works such as "Bad News: How Woke Media Is Undermining Democracy" and "Second Class: How the Elites Betrayed America's Working Men and Women," consistently highlights the growing divide between the college-educated elite and the working class. Her latest article likely posits that a new wave of industrial workers, or a renewed emphasis on industrial production, will play a crucial role in shaping the nation's economic future. This perspective often critiques the decline of U.S. manufacturing and the outsourcing of jobs, advocating for policies that support domestic industrial growth.
Her previous analyses have frequently argued that the "laptop class" has overlooked or even undermined the interests of those engaged in physical labor and production. "America’s liberal elites... have abandoned working people for identity politics, open borders, and globalization," Ungar-Sargon stated in a recent interview, a sentiment that likely underpins her "new industrialists" thesis. The article is expected to explore how a resurgence in valuing industrial work could address economic disparities and reshape political discourse.
The concept of "new industrialists" suggests a potential shift in societal and economic recognition towards skilled trades, manufacturing, and other hands-on professions. This re-emphasis could imply a move away from an economy heavily reliant on service sectors and digital work, aligning with Ungar-Sargon's calls for a more robust working-class agenda. Her work often highlights the importance of stable, well-paying industrial jobs as a pathway to economic security for many Americans.
The article's release comes amid ongoing debates about reshoring manufacturing, supply chain resilience, and the future of work in a post-pandemic economy. Ungar-Sargon's "Here Come the New Industrialists" is anticipated to contribute to this discourse by championing the re-emergence of industrial labor as a vital force in American society. The piece is available on The Free Press, a platform known for hosting diverse viewpoints on cultural and political issues.