Americans Exceptionally Anxious About Political System, Gallup Poll Finds

New international survey shows US stands out for concerns over democracy and economic future

Feb. 4, 2026 at 11:39am

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A new Gallup poll of over 100 countries found that Americans are uniquely anxious about the stability of their political system and economic future, with younger Americans particularly worried about affordability and cost-of-living issues. The survey highlights deep partisan divisions in the US, with those distrustful of institutions far more likely to cite politics as the top concern.

Why it matters

The findings reflect the ongoing challenges facing American democracy, including heightened political polarization, declining trust in institutions, and economic pressures that have fueled populist sentiment. The survey underscores the need to address these systemic issues to restore faith in the country's democratic processes and institutions.

The details

The Gallup World Poll, conducted from March to October 2025, found that about one-third of Americans rated politics and government as the top issue facing the nation, behind only Taiwan (which faces a potential invasion from China) and on par with Slovenia, Spain and South Korea. The US also stood out for the high level of economic anxiety among younger residents, with those 35 and under more likely than young adults in many other countries to cite affordability and cost-of-living as top concerns.

  • The Gallup World Poll was conducted between March and October 2025.

The players

Gallup

An American analytics and advisory company that provides data-driven news based on public opinion surveys.

Benedict Vigers

A Gallup analyst who commented on the survey findings.

Brendan Nyhan

A Dartmouth political scientist who discussed the link between economic anxiety and democratic stability.

Frank Newport

A Gallup analyst who has tracked the rise of politics and government as a top issue for Americans over time.

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What they’re saying

“It's really unique in that regard.”

— Benedict Vigers, Gallup analyst

“A world where people aren't optimistic about their economic futures is one in which they're willing to destabilize institutions even further.”

— Brendan Nyhan, Dartmouth political scientist

“It's all mixed up with polarization.”

— Frank Newport, Gallup analyst

What’s next

The survey findings are likely to spur further analysis and discussion around the state of American democracy and the economic pressures facing younger generations. Policymakers and political leaders will likely need to address these systemic issues to restore faith in the country's institutions.

The takeaway

The Gallup poll underscores the deep divisions and anxieties gripping the United States, with Americans uniquely concerned about the stability of their political system and economic future compared to citizens in other wealthy, developed nations. Addressing these challenges will be crucial for strengthening American democracy and ensuring opportunity for all.