56% of Americans Say Rule of Law is Weaker Now
A new survey of over 23,000 U.S. adults by Gallup and the Charles F. Kettering Foundation found that a majority of Americans believe the rule of law in the U.S. has declined over the past decade, with only 14% thinking it's stronger
A majority of Americans believe the rule of law in the U.S. is weaker now than a decade ago, according to a survey of over 23,000 U.S. adults by Gallup and the Charles F. Kettering Foundation. The survey found that 56% of Americans think the rule of law is weaker, while 14% think it's stronger.
The survey also found that 78% of respondents say government officials must always follow laws and the Constitution. However, only 28% of respondents trust that political leaders will be held accountable if they don't follow laws and the Constitution.
The survey was conducted as part of the Democracy for All Project, and it sheds light on Americans' perceptions of the rule of law and democracy. Two-thirds of Americans said democracy is the best form of government, and 57% of survey respondents prefer candidates who challenge powerful or established interests.
Notably, 42% of older Republicans (65+) say it's reasonable to assume that election officials acted improperly if election outcomes are surprising, up from 30% last year. This suggests a decline in trust in election officials among this demographic.
## Why it matters The survey's findings have significant implications for the state of democracy in the U.S. The fact that a majority of Americans believe the rule of law is weaker now than a decade ago suggests a decline in trust in institutions and a sense of disillusionment with the political system. This could have far-reaching consequences for the health of democracy in the U.S. and the ability of government officials to effectively govern.
The survey's results also highlight the importance of accountability and the need for government officials to follow laws and the Constitution. The fact that only 28% of respondents trust that political leaders will be held accountable if they don't follow laws and the Constitution suggests a need for greater transparency and accountability in government.
Overall, the survey provides a snapshot of Americans' perceptions of the rule of law and democracy, and it highlights the need for greater attention to these issues in order to strengthen democracy and promote trust in institutions.
