If this is your question then your argument collapses. Yes, tons of real progress have been made since 2008. In 2008 only hetero couples could enjoy the protection of marriage. In 2008 people like me who created small businesses and risked years of low income to follow their dreams could forget about affordable health insurance. You will probably never experience the joy of being denied coverage at age 50 because you have disclosed that you have a hernia. In 2008 there was no viable EV option for car buyers, few viable options for rooftop solar, and renewable sources accounted for a small slice of national energy resources. That production has more than doubled and now accounts for about 20% of the total, with renewables being the fastest growing area by far. There are many more examples of progress and it helps to remember that playing defense is always easier than offense, one reason that so few goals are scored in soccer. It's just easier to disrupt than it is to construct;)