An online survey conducted by the Center on Civility & Democracy, a subsidiary of the Reagan Presidential Foundation, through the communication agency “Pinkston” earlier this year revealed that 72% of Americans are eager to participate in solutions to restore national civility and manners.
Despite ongoing disputes, tense political atmosphere, and a weakening democratic system, the majority of Americans still yearn for seeking common ground and civilized solutions by addressing issues through policies rather than attacking individuals. The survey also included values established by the US Constitution, elected officials, and future perspectives.
Established in June 2023, the Center on Civility & Democracy aims to promote civil dialogue, seek common ground, and encourage rational patriotism. According to the survey, most Americans believe that we must return to an era of civility, courtesy, and mutual respect.
A total of 1,555 Americans responded to the online survey conducted by the center from January 21 to 27 this year; participants were evenly split between men and women, with a balanced distribution across political parties – 38% Republicans, 37% Democrats, 21% Independents, and 3% other parties; 82% had voted in the 2024 election, while 18% did not vote.
The age groups of the respondents were also evenly distributed, with 18-29-year-olds accounting for 14%, while groups from 30-41 years, 42-53 years, 54-65 years, and 66 years and above each comprised around 20%.
Following the conclusion of President Trump’s inauguration ceremony, respondents were asked about their views on democracy and leadership: “Are you optimistic or pessimistic about our country’s ability to focus on unity rather than division?” 47% expressed optimism, 45% were pessimistic; 21% were very optimistic, and 26% were very pessimistic.
“Do you feel optimistic or pessimistic about our country’s ability to seek consensus and work together?” 49% were optimistic, 45% were pessimistic; 19% were very optimistic, while 26% were very pessimistic.
“When it comes to the current state of democracy today, do you think our democracy is more resilient or weaker than before?” 52% of Americans believe that the US democratic system is now weaker, 25% think it’s more robust, and 23% are neutral; of those, 25% believe it is “much weaker,” while only 8% consider it “much more robust.”
Among the respondents, more independents and Democrats than Republicans believe that today’s democratic system is weaker than before.
“Do you think our democracy will be more robust or weaker in the next 10 years?” 44% believe democracy will be more resilient, 29% say it will be weaker, and 27% are neutral.
More Republicans than Independents and Democrats believe that democracy will be stronger in the future. Compared to the oldest Americans aged 65 and above, the youngest age group (18-29 years) is more likely to believe that democracy will be stronger after 10 years.
People’s expectations of elected officials are changing, with most Americans hoping that elected officials will work harder to reach consensus with officials from different parties. Across all age groups, more elderly Americans believe that the character and values of elected officials have deteriorated.
“Do you think the character and values of elected officials have changed?” 51% of Americans believe that the character and values of elected officials have declined, 28% believe they have improved, and 20% think they remain the same.
“Do you think the motives of those seeking elected positions have changed?” 68% of Americans believe so, 20% are neutral, and 11% disagree. 37% think the motives have “definitely changed.”
“Do you think rude and uncivil behavior of elected officials is more tolerated now than in the past?” 73% of Americans believe that people are more tolerant of the “rude and uncivil behavior of elected officials” than before, while 17% do not think so.
“Do you wish elected officials would work harder to reach consensus with officials from different parties?” 83% of Americans agree, with 57% strongly agreeing, hoping that government leaders can transcend party lines, find common ground, and 14% are neutral.
Most Americans believe that a way can be found to restore civility in America and are eager to be part of the solution. 72% of Americans agree, 23% are neutral, and 5% disagree; 36% strongly agree.
“I believe the values established by the US Constitution are as important today as they were in the past.” 69% agree, 19% are neutral, and 12% disagree; 39% strongly agree.
“I believe common ground can be found on most issues.” 71% agree, 21% are neutral, and 8% disagree; with 27% strongly agreeing and 44% somewhat agreeing.
“We can resolve differences through policies rather than personal attacks.” 76% of Americans agree, 19% are neutral, and 5% disagree; 41% strongly believe that differences can be resolved through policies.
“When traditional politics fail, sometimes the use of violence is justified.” 28% agree, 23% are neutral, and 49% disagree. 11% strongly agree with the use of force in cases of political failure, while 32% strongly oppose.
“Too many people are as fervent about their political views as they are about their religious beliefs.” 68% agree, expressing concern that people may treat politics as a religion; 24% are neutral, and 8% disagree.