Question

What share of the U.S. population is officially counted as poor?

a. 45 percent
b. 25 percent
c. 15 percent
d. 5 percent

Answer 1

The closest answer to the U.S. poverty rate as per the given options would be 15 percent (option c), aligning closely with the peak rate of 15.9% in 2011.

Step-by-step explanation:

The share of the U.S. population that is officially counted as poor is not 45%, 25%, or 5%. Based on historical data provided, the U.S. poverty rate has varied over time, with the lowest being above 10.5%. In the last six decades, it has not dipped below 11%, meaning at best, around one in nine Americans has been below the poverty line. The peak mentioned in recent times was 15.9% in 2011, which subsequently decreased to 14.5% by 2013. Therefore, the closest answer to the student's question would be 15 percent (option c), which aligns with the recent peak poverty rate but does not exceed it.