Public Discontent Grows Over U.S. Democracy Performance

Thu Nov 20 2025 08:51:51 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A recent survey reveals that nearly half of U.S. adults feel democracy is functioning poorly, with significant doubts about political leadership and government responsiveness.

A new poll indicates that about half of U.S. adults believe democracy is functioning poorly, with few viewing government actions as reflective of the people's will. Conducted by the Kettering Foundation and Gallup, this survey highlights a widespread loss of confidence in democratic processes and leadership, coinciding with a significant increase in political polarization and social change.

A recent poll suggests a worrying trend among U.S. adults regarding democracy's effectiveness. Approximately fifty percent of respondents feel that democracy in the U.S. is functioning 'very' or 'moderately' poorly. In stark contrast, only about a quarter believe it is doing 'very' or 'moderately' well, marking a significant decline from previous decades when public opinion generally favored democratic processes.

The Kettering Foundation-Gallup survey reveals that while about two-thirds of Americans agree that democracy is the best form of government, there is widespread skepticism regarding the commitment of political leaders to democratic principles. More than 40% of those surveyed doubt their leaders' dedication to democracy.

Many Americans express feelings of disconnection from elected officials, believing that government decisions often do not align with public interests. Only around 25% of respondents feel that governmental actions truly reflect the majority's desires.

The findings are part of a broader project initiated by Gallup and the Kettering Foundation, exploring how Americans perceive and experience democracy at a time characterized by extreme political polarization and ongoing changes in the social landscape. This extensive survey included insights from over 20,000 adults conducted during July and August this year.

While dissatisfaction is particularly prevalent among Democrats, who are currently out of power, it also extends across party lines. Concerns regarding effectiveness grow in tandem with mounting economic anxieties among citizens, raising questions about the credibility of both major political parties and their ability to lead the nation effectively.

Overall, the current atmosphere of public sentiment points to a democracy under stress, with calls for revitalization and responsiveness from the political landscape that continues to evolve dramatically.