Strengthening Democracy in America: Voice of the People

Stat: 6 in 10: The share of Americans who are dissatisfied with the way democracy is working in the United States.

Story: Increased political polarization, shifting societal values, and growing distrust in institutions threatens the public’s confidence in our democratic system. And a recent Pew Research Center survey shows that almost 60% of Americans are dissatisfied with the way democracy is working in the United States. In this episode, we speak to experts from Pew Research Center about the importance of studying public opinion and Americans’ outlook on democracy today. We also speak to Michael Caudell-Feagan of The Pew Charitable Trusts about the ways government is working effectively for people, and about Pew’s historic role in furthering evidence-based policymaking.

Related Resources:

• On July Fourth, How Americans see Their Country and Their Democracy
• Public Trust in Government: 1958-2022
• Americans’ Trust in Scientists, Other Groups Declines
• Global Public Opinion in an Era of Democratic Anxiety
• How Americans View Trust, Facts, and Democracy Today