Originally Posted by
kangarooflyer88
I would encourage you to read the entirety of my reply rather than a specific statement that is part of a larger response. Here's what I wrote to give proper context:
In any event, I think the point still stands that for most airlines you aren't gonna get into their lounge unless you hold a credit card like the Platinum, have lounge membership, or are in one of edge cases like flying domestically in business on a flagship route. For the day to day commuter who does New York to Washington or SF to LA, unless they have a credit card or lounge membership they are out of luck.
-RooFlyer88
You are confusing business class and first class.
First Class (the only product labeled as such by Delta) is offered by Delta on most domestic routes (and some international routes) and does NOT include lounge access.
Business Class (called "Delta One" by Delta) has historically and continues to offer lounge access everywhere it is marketed including cross-country travel and international travel.
Nothing is changing to access provided by class of service. If you were traveling NY->DCA, SFO->LAX, you either needed a membership or a credit card before and continue to need the same. You just can't get a membership unless you're a Medallion Elite