Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[sejpdw]

Roosevelt believed in using the full power of government to help what he called the "forgotten pople." And it was these workers, the wage earners, who felt the strongest affection toward Roosevelt.

Q. In 'to help what', 'whom' seems to be right instead of 'what'. What's your opinion?

[Christine123]

Correct. When referring to people, the correct words to use are who/whom. Please note, however, that many native speakers will use what when referring to people, as you example illustrates. Many native speakers will also omit the use of whom and use the word who in all circumstances.