As President Trump prepares for his upcoming State of the Union address, most Americans feel the country is worse off compared to last year. A recent NPR/PBS News/Marist poll shows that many believe the state of the union is weak. This sentiment is echoed across various demographics, with differing opinions depending on political affiliation and education levels.
Lee Miringoff, director of the Marist University Institute for Public Opinion, notes, “President Trump’s checklist is particularly large.” This address presents him with a chance to reconnect with the nation, but public perception is hard to shift. Many still back him, especially among Republican voters—over 80% think the country is doing better.
The survey, conducted with 1,462 adults, had a margin of error of ±2.9%. Pollsters used various methods to ensure a broad representation of views, reaching out in English and Spanish.
When asked about the state of the union, 57% said it isn’t strong, up four points from last year. Notably, 80% of Democrats and about two-thirds of independents share this view. Contrast this with Republicans, where roughly three-quarters feel the opposite.
Education appears to be a significant factor here. Almost 70% of college graduates say the state is weak, while those without a degree are split evenly on the issue. Older adults and women in suburban areas are particularly pessimistic, with 63% of women feeling the state of the union is weak—12 points more than men.
A striking 60% of respondents believe the country has taken a turn for the worse under Trump’s leadership. This includes a significant majority of independents and 90% of Democrats. Even among Republicans, who typically support Trump, many express concern about the nation’s direction.
The poll indicates a rising concern about the future of American democracy. A staggering 78% perceive it as threatened, with 68% believing that the current system of checks and balances is failing. Interestingly, majorities across the political spectrum—91% of Democrats, 80% of independents, and 61% of Republicans—share this alarming sentiment. However, their reasons for this concern vary widely.
There’s been a noticeable increase in the number of people saying the checks and balances are not functioning properly, reflecting a growing distrust in institutions. This trend aligns with research showing a pattern of declining public trust over the years, as highlighted in a recent Pew Research report.
In summary, the upcoming State of the Union presents a critical opportunity for President Trump. Yet, with growing skepticism and significant divisions among Americans, it will be a challenging moment for him to reshape perceptions and gain broader public support.
