New Yorkers and the nation doubt democracy’s endurance.
A new poll from Gallup and the Charles F. Kettering Foundation found 56% of Americans said the rule of law is weaker than it was a decade ago, and only 28% of people trust U.S. political leaders will be held accountable to the nation’s law and the Constitution, down a third from 2025.
Derek Barker, senior program officer for research initiatives at the foundation, said there is little faith in parts of democracy.
“A strong majority is saying that separation of powers, so these institutions and the systems that we’ve developed to check each other; most people are saying that’s not working,” Barker reported.
For the first time, polls show more think the executive branch has too much power. When asked about solutions, most Americans said voting new people into office is one of the best ways to improve democracy. Other solutions include reforming elections by expanding voting opportunities and increasing election security.
However, there is some disbelief in democracy’s ability to be strengthened. The poll showed most people expect democracy to be much weaker in the next 50 years.
Other data show 62% of Americans think young people today are less likely to have a better life than their parents but Barker pointed out there are some bright spots for democracy.
“Americans believe in the principle of the rule of law. There’s very broad agreement the government should follow the law and this supports the overarching finding as well that Americans believe democracy is the best form of government,” Barker added.
Despite concerns about democracy, the poll found it is alive and well at the local level. Local democracy is viewed more favorably by those who are happier with local services, allowing them to express greater trust in their neighbors and information from municipal officials.
Edwin is a reporter and producer in North Tonawanda, New York. He’s previously reported for the Niagara Gazette and the Ithaca Times. Edwin got an early start in radio interning for WBFO-88.7FM, NPR’s Buffalo affiliate. In 2018, he graduated from SUNY Buffalo State College with a B.A. in Journalism, and in 2022, graduated from Syracuse University with an M.S. in Communications.