Global Survey Shows Growing Skepticism of U.S. Political System

Dec. 18, 2024, 8:58 am ET

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30-Second Take

  • Global survey reveals deep concerns about U.S. racial discrimination
  • Only 17% worldwide view U.S. democracy as positive model
  • Political violence trends alarm international observers

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Quick Brief

2-Minute Digest

Essential Context

International observers are expressing mounting concern over America’s political stability, racial tensions, and democratic health. While some experts suggest threats to democracy may be overstated, recent surveys reveal widespread skepticism about U.S. leadership on the global stage.

Core Players

  • Global survey respondents from 16 advanced economies
  • American demographic groups (Black, Hispanic, White adults)
  • Democratic and Republican voters

Key Numbers

  • 93% of Black Americans cite discrimination as serious problem
  • 74% of Canadians criticize U.S. healthcare system
  • 57% say U.S. democracy no longer serves as good example

Full Depth

The Catalyst

The 2020 murder of George Floyd sparked global protests and intensified international scrutiny of American society.

This watershed moment crystallized concerns about systemic racism and police brutality.

Inside Forces

Political polarization has reached critical levels, with party affiliation increasingly aligned with racial, religious, and cultural identities. Recent electoral setbacks have forced Democrats to reconsider their approach to identity politics.

Power Dynamics

Only 50% across surveyed nations believe the U.S. political system functions effectively. Political sycophancy has emerged as a significant threat to democratic institutions, with 72% of Americans acknowledging democracy’s deterioration.

Outside Impact

America’s declining democratic example threatens its global leadership position.

International allies express growing skepticism about U.S. political stability.

Future Forces

  • Continued identity-based political conflicts
  • Pressure for institutional reforms
  • Growing demands for racial justice solutions

Data Points

  • February 2021: ATP survey reveals widespread concerns
  • 2020: Shift in Republican base demographics
  • 17%: Global confidence in U.S. democratic model

As America approaches 2025, the international community watches closely to see how the nation addresses these fundamental challenges to its democratic system and social fabric.