Government Trust at Historic Low: Only 17% of Americans Trust U.S. Government, Pew Poll Shows
A Pew Research poll released on September 24-25, 2026 reveals that only 17% of Americans trust the federal government, reflecting deep political polarization as the midterm elections approach. The historically low figure underscores challenges facing both parties.
Trust Crisis Ahead of Midterms
With only six weeks to go before the midterms, a Pew Research poll shows only 17% of Americans trust the U.S. government. This historically low approval figure suggests the electorate faces the upcoming election amid unprecedented skepticism about government institutions.
Polarization and Institutional Decline
The dramatic erosion of trust in government reflects years of partisan conflict, congressional gridlock, and declining faith in democratic institutions. Sabrina Tavernise, a writer at The New York Times, joins "The Daily Report" to analyze the visit.
Electoral Implications
With midterm voting just weeks away, the low trust figures create an unpredictable political environment. Voters expressing such profound skepticism of government may be more volatile, more likely to split tickets, and potentially more susceptible to anti-establishment messaging from both parties.
Historical Context
This 17% trust level represents one of the lowest points in modern American polling. The figure suggests that large majorities of Americans across the political spectrum harbor serious doubts about the competence, honesty, and responsiveness of their federal government. The breadth of this distrust cuts across traditional party lines and demographic divisions.