AP-NORC Poll Shows Faith in U.S. Democracy Slips to 67% as America 250 Nears
Updated
Updated · The Associated Press · Jun 8
AP-NORC Poll Shows Faith in U.S. Democracy Slips to 67% as America 250 Nears
3 articles · Updated · The Associated Press · Jun 8
Summary
About two-thirds of U.S. adults now say a democratically elected government is central to the nation’s identity, down from 80% in 2021, according to an AP-NORC poll released ahead of the 250th anniversary celebrations.
Younger Americans drove much of the decline: only about half of adults under 30 see democracy as core to U.S. identity, versus 81% of those 60 and older, and 44% of under-30s say other countries are better than the U.S.
Confidence in American exceptionalism and upward mobility also weakened. Only about one-quarter say the U.S. stands above all other countries, while 51% say the American Dream once held true but no longer does.
Partisan and cultural splits remain sharp: 57% of Republicans say the American Dream still holds true, versus 17% of Democrats, and views on diversity as central to U.S. identity are similarly divided.
The poll of 2,596 adults, conducted April 16-20, suggests broad unease over representative government and national identity even as communities prepare to commemorate the country’s founding ideals.
As faith in traditional values declines, what new ideals will define America's next chapter?
With the American Dream out of reach for many, what does success look like now?
American Faith at 250: Declining Trust, National Identity, and the Future of U.S. Democracy
Overview
As the United States nears its 250th anniversary, Americans are increasingly questioning the nation’s core principles and identity. Recent polls show a significant decline in belief in American exceptionalism and a reduced emphasis on shared culture and values, especially among younger generations. This shift is accompanied by deep partisan divides and growing skepticism about democracy itself. The report highlights how these trends, fueled by polarization and distrust, are challenging the foundations of American society and prompting urgent reflection on the country’s future direction.