Summary
A new poll by the Institute of Politics at Harvard Kennedy School shows that young Americans feel economically insecure and have low trust in political and economic systems. Most young people doubt the U.S. is on the right track and have negative views of major political parties and institutions. The poll indicates declining faith in democracy and capitalism among the youth.
Key Facts
- The poll surveyed 2,040 young Americans aged 18 to 29 from November 3-7.
- Only 13% believe the U.S. is headed in the right direction.
- 43% of young people report financial struggles or limited security.
- 30% expect to be financially better off than their parents.
- President Trump has a 29% approval rating among young people.
- Congressional Democrats and Republicans both have low approval ratings, at 27% and 26%, respectively.
- Faith in capitalism among young Americans is at 39%, down from 45% in 2020.
- 64% view the U.S. as a democracy in trouble or failed, with only 32% seeing it positively.
