Public Trust in U.S. Government Falls to Six-Decade Low, New Survey Shows
New survey reveals U.S. public trust in government hits lowest point in 60 years,
raising concerns ahead of 2026 elections.”
Washington, D.C. — December 7, 2025 | 9:45 a.m. ET
A newly released national survey has found that trust in the federal government has fallen to its lowest level in more than sixty years, signaling a broad decline in public confidence ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. The data, collected from respondents across all regions of the United States, reveals a widespread belief that Washington is struggling to effectively address major national issues.
Survey Shows Sharp Decline Across All Groups
According to the report, fewer than one in five Americans say they trust the federal government to make decisions that reflect the country’s best interests. This decline spans age groups, income brackets, and political affiliations. Young adults, in particular, show the lowest levels of trust recorded since such surveys began.
Experts attribute the downward trend to several long-standing concerns. Continued political disagreements in Congress, slow legislative progress on issues such as healthcare, immigration, and inflation, and a highly polarized media environment have contributed to public frustration. Many Americans expressed the view that elected officials are prioritizing political competition over cooperation.
Voters Express Desire for Practical Solutions
Across major U.S. cities and smaller towns, residents say they feel disconnected from policy discussions taking place in Washington. Individuals interviewed in Atlanta, Denver, Minneapolis, and Phoenix reported concerns about rising living costs, job security, and access to affordable housing. Many said they felt these issues were not receiving adequate attention from federal leaders.
Political analysts note that such sentiments indicate growing dissatisfaction with the pace of progress on domestic matters. While voters recognize the complexity of national policy, many feel that government agencies and lawmakers should communicate more clearly about ongoing challenges and proposed solutions.
Trusted Institutions Show Decline as Well
The decline in trust is not limited to the legislative branch. Public confidence in several national institutions has weakened over the past decade. Analysts say this trend reflects broader concerns about transparency, accountability, and communication between officials and citizens. The growth of misinformation on digital platforms has also contributed to uncertainty about which sources can be relied upon.
Potential Impact on the 2026 Elections
With the 2026 elections approaching, the survey’s findings could influence campaign strategies for both major political parties. Historically, low trust in government has been associated with reduced voter turnout, particularly among independents and younger voters. Analysts say that candidates who focus on practical, policy-based agendas may gain an advantage with a public increasingly seeking stability and clarity.
Both parties are expected to emphasize themes such as economic relief, government reform, and improved public services. Rising public concern about living costs, employment conditions, and long-term national planning may shape debate priorities in the months ahead.
Looking Ahead
Researchers who conducted the survey say restoring trust will require sustained effort, improved communication, and policies that address the needs of everyday Americans. While trust levels have fluctuated throughout U.S. history, this year’s results highlight a significant moment for policymakers as they prepare for a critical election cycle.
