Researchers at the SNF Agora Institute and Public Agenda combined a national survey of 4,500 Americans, earlier polling and three Republican focus groups to assess public views of US democracy and divisions within the Republican Party. The study groups Republicans into three types and compares their attitudes on presidential authority, constitutional limits, elections and trust in government.
Trump-first Republicans (29%) favor broad presidential power, including bypassing Congress, and a majority in this group supports allowing Donald Trump to run for a third term. Constitution-first Republicans (34%) emphasize checks and balances, a clear legislative role for Congress, and oppose changing the Constitution to permit a third term; most in this group voted for Trump. Party-first Republicans (36%) are less engaged in political discussion and express greater uncertainty about the scope of presidential powers.
Across the political spectrum, concern about democracy is high: 84% say democracy is in crisis or facing serious challenges, while only 11% say it is doing well. Trust in elections is fragile: one-third of Americans say federal elections are not free and fair, and 59% say local elections are fair. Views of the 2020 election remain sharply divided (96% of Democrats and 56% of Independents say Joe Biden won legitimately, while only 18% of Republicans are confident he won). The study also notes concerns about politicians, COVID-19 federal response and distrust of mainstream media, and reports where people get news: 46% use online sources, 42% rely on traditional television, and 36% turn to cable news.
Researchers say these political and informational divides shape how Americans experience democracy. The full report is available on the SNF Agora Institute website.
Difficult words
- constitution — written system of fundamental laws and principles
- bypass — to go around an official process or bodybypassing
- legitimately — in a way that is lawful or accepted as fair
- checks and balances — rules that limit power by dividing responsibilities
- fragile — easily damaged or weak and not secure
- division — separation into groups or opposing partsdivisions
- survey — a set of questions asked to many people
- distrust — lack of trust or belief in someone or something
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How might the three Republican types described affect future party decisions or elections?
- Why do you think trust in federal versus local elections differs, based on the article?
- What role do different news sources (online, television, cable) play in shaping people's views of democracy?
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