Seventy-six percent of Americans view democracy as under serious threat

In late June 2025, a NPR/PBS News/Marist poll unveiled alarming sentiments among American adults regarding the state of democracy and political violence in the United States. The survey interviewed 1,381 participants from June 23-25, highlighting that 76% of respondents believe democracy faces a serious threat, a concern predominantly echoed by Democrats and Independents, at 89% and 80% respectively. In contrast, only 57% of Republicans share this viewpoint, reflecting a significant partisan divide in perceptions of governmental integrity. This division is indicative of broader political and social tensions in the country. Furthermore, the poll also found that 73% of Americans see politically motivated violence as a major problem. This perception transcends party lines, albeit with noticeable differences; 75% of Democrats and 79% of Independents acknowledged the violence issue, compared to 69% of Republicans. The alarming rise in politically motivated violence has evolved over the past decade, correlating with increased polarization within American society. The number of attacks against political figures, government officials, and candidates has surged, raising widespread concerns among the public. As the country grapples with what it means to be American, the survey reveals a general lack of faith in political leadership. Only 35% of respondents are satisfied with the performance of congressional Republicans, and the approval rating for congressional Democrats stands at a mere 27%. This discontent is coupled with fears over immigration policies and rising political violence, resulting in deeper polarization among voters. The stark contrast in opinions indicates that those most worried about democracy include white women, regardless of education level, who disproportionately expressed concerns. The significance of this poll cannot be overstated, as it not only reflects the current sentiments but also underlines the fragility of the democratic system amidst growing threats and political violence. As the survey results circulate in the public domain, they serve as a wake-up call to lawmakers and citizens alike, urging a concerted effort to address the issues of distrust and division that have permeated American politics.