United States public trust in government and institutions declines

Recent polling indicates a significant decline in public trust toward institutions in the United States. A Gallup poll reveals that 89% of American adults believe corruption is widespread throughout the government, marking the highest level in the survey’s 20-year history. This sentiment is widespread across political lines, with 91% of Democrats, 90% of independents, and 83% of Republicans expressing this view.

Additionally, an AP-NORC/USA Facts survey shows rising skepticism regarding federal government information. Majorities of Americans report having little or no trust in government communications concerning elections, foreign affairs, the environment, and immigration. Trust in the certification of election results has also declined, with only 34% of adults expressing high levels of confidence in the process.

In contrast to the decline in trust for government and scientific expertise, the American Alliance of Museums reports that trust in U.S. museums is rising across the political spectrum. Museums currently rank as highly trusted information sources, trailing only friends and public libraries, while surpassing researchers, scientists, and the federal government in public confidence.