As the United States approaches its 249th Independence Day, a substantial portion of the population perceives democracy as being at risk. A recent NPR/PBS News/Marist poll reveals that 76% of Americans view democracy as being under grave threat, paralleling concerns about politically motivated violence.
The poll captures opinions during a period marked by significant political division, as Donald Trump continues his second term as president. The survey sheds light on the public’s dwindling trust in political leadership amid debates over national identity and belonging.
Conducted between June 23-25, Marist surveyed 1,381 adults using text and online methods, providing options in both English and Spanish. The poll’s margin of error is +/- 2.9 percentage points, with demographic adjustments aligning with U.S. Census data.
Democracy Under Duress
Seventy-six percent of participants believe democracy is in jeopardy, a statistic reflecting little change since April 2023, but decreasing from the 87% reported in August 2023. The shift is primarily attributed to Republicans, with 57% now acknowledging the threat compared to 88% during Joe Biden’s presidency.
The perception of a democratic threat is pervasive across political affiliations: 89% of Democrats, 80% of independents, and 57% of Republicans expressed concern. Differences in reasoning likely exist between these groups, though specific causes were not detailed in the responses.
No significant variations were observed across race, income, or education levels. However, those who supported former Vice President Kamala Harris and white women, regardless of education level, were among the most concerned.
Concerns Over Political Violence
Political violence emerges as a critical issue, with 73% considering it a significant problem. While political party alignment showed little variation, differences were noted across racial and age demographics. White and older voters expressed more concern compared to Latino, Black, and younger voters.
White women with college degrees (83%) and those aged 60 and older (81%) were particularly likely to view politically motivated violence as a major issue.
Lack of Confidence in Leaders
Confidence in political figures, including Trump and congressional members from both parties, remains low. Trump’s overall job approval stands at 43%, with similar ratings for his immigration policies, and slightly lower for foreign policy (41%) and economic measures (39%).
Congressional approval ratings are also low, with Republicans at 35% and Democrats at 27%, the latter being their lowest in seven years. Notably, Republican constituents express higher approval of their congressional representatives than Democrats do of theirs.
Debates on National Identity
Approximately two-thirds of respondents assert that America’s openness is integral to its identity. However, opinions diverge along party lines, with 85% of Democrats and 68% of independents in agreement, contrasted by 62% of Republicans expressing concerns over losing national identity.
Trump’s immigration policies echo his overall approval, with mixed public perception on safety impacts and deportation practices, particularly concerning individuals with criminal convictions and those working in agriculture and food industries.
Regarding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), 54% believe its enforcement actions have been excessive, with differing opinions on the adequacy or insufficiency of its efforts.
Adherence to Court Orders
A substantial majority, over 80%, believe presidents should comply with court orders, even when disagreeing. This view is held by 70% of Republicans, although only 22% strongly agree.
Division Over Iran Actions
The nation is evenly split on the U.S. attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities, with 50% in agreement and 50% opposed. The division reflects partisan lines, with 84% of Republicans supporting the attacks and 75% of Democrats opposing them.
Iran’s perceived threat level varies, with 48% considering it a major threat to U.S. security, while 39% view it as minor. Interestingly, younger generations, including Gen Z and millennials, are more likely to perceive Iran as non-threatening.
Concerns about retaliation are prevalent, except among Trump voters, 38% of whom express little concern.
Copyright 2025 NPR
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