Pew finds nation divided on whether the American Dream is still possible

About half the country says the American Dream — the idea that anyone can get ahead through hard work and determination — is still possible, according to findings released Tuesday by Pew Research Center. 

While 53% say the American Dream is still possible, another 41% believe it once was possible, but is not anymore, the recent survey of 8,709 U.S. adults found. That divide roughly held, regardless of race, ethnicity, partisanship and education of respondents, the nonpartisan fact tank found. 

The gap proved wider by age and income, however, with older and wealthier Americans more likely to declare the American Dream to still be feasible, Pew stated.