The matter at hand in the United States is multifaceted, encompassing both economic and social challenges. The country is grappling with issues such as income inequality, economic stagnation, and social unrest. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the top 1% of Americans held 38.6% of the nation's wealth in 2019, a stark contrast to the bottom 50%, who held just 2.5%. This data highlights the growing economic divide in the country.

One of the primary reasons for these issues is the widening gap between the rich and the poor. The increasing concentration of wealth among the elite has led to a decline in the middle class, which has traditionally been the backbone of the American economy. This trend is exacerbated by factors such as automation, globalization, and tax policies that favor the wealthy. For instance, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 significantly reduced corporate tax rates and provided substantial tax breaks for high-income individuals, widening the wealth gap further.

Socially, the United States is facing a myriad of challenges, including racial tensions, political polarization, and a lack of access to quality education and healthcare. The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed and exacerbated these issues, with marginalized communities bearing the brunt of the economic and health crises. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Black and Hispanic individuals are at a higher risk of contracting and dying from COVID-19 than their white counterparts, highlighting systemic inequalities in healthcare.

Furthermore, the political landscape in the United States is increasingly polarized, with deep divisions along racial, ideological, and economic lines. This polarization has led to a breakdown in civil discourse and has hindered the country's ability to address its most pressing issues. The 2020 election, which saw one of the highest voter turnout rates in history, is a testament to the deep-seated divisions within the nation.

In conclusion, the matter in the United States is a complex interplay of economic and social issues. The growing wealth gap, coupled with social and political challenges, poses significant risks to the country's stability and prosperity. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that includes policy changes, increased investment in education and healthcare, and efforts to promote social cohesion.