Reuters/Ipsos Poll Finds 64% See U.S. Democracy in Danger as 38% Doubt Nation's Next 250 Years
Updated
Updated · Reuters · Jun 16
Reuters/Ipsos Poll Finds 64% See U.S. Democracy in Danger as 38% Doubt Nation's Next 250 Years
3 articles · Updated · Reuters · Jun 16
Summary
64% of Americans said U.S. democracy is in danger of failing in a Reuters/Ipsos poll completed Monday, up from 57% in August.
38% said the United States would not remain a single country 250 years from now, including 40% of Democrats and 26% of Republicans.
77% said political violence is likely to increase over the next five years, underscoring the anxiety captured ahead of the July 4 semiquincentennial.
A majority said 250th-anniversary events had grown too political as Donald Trump put himself at the center of celebrations and a planned Washington rally.
30% called America the world's greatest country, down from 38% in 2017, pointing to a broader erosion in national confidence.
Why does pessimism about the nation's direction persist even as trust in local government and the military remains relatively strong?
Historically, has widespread public doubt in America's future ever preceded periods of significant national renewal and reform?
As trust in national institutions wanes, what new community-led initiatives are emerging to redefine American unity for the next generation?
Divided at 250: How Political Polarization and Institutional Challenges Threaten American Democracy
Overview
As of mid-2026, American democracy faces significant concerns, with both the public and experts worried about its health. Widespread political division is evident, as many Americans feel anxious about the politicization of national events, including the 250th anniversary celebrations, which many see as excessively political. This discomfort extends to traditionally unifying occasions, reflecting deep polarization. While public trust in institutions is mixed, legal experts and political scientists still show considerable confidence in key federal institutions. Together, these trends highlight a nation struggling with division, yet holding onto some institutional strengths amid a challenging political climate.