In an era when “democracy” is invoked on campaign trails, cable news, and in everyday conversation—its meaning remains elusive and its political value uncertain. Many Democrats are grappling with a critical question: Is talking about democracy a winning message—or just an abstraction voters tune out?
GSG set out to answer this question. Using cutting-edge research tools, including factor analysis and adaptive interviews, our latest study digs deep into what democracy actually means to voters—and how they respond to threats against it.
The findings in Democracy in the Balance: Public Attitudes in a Shifting Political Landscape shed new light on how to reframe democracy as an issue that resonates emotionally and politically.
Key insights from the report include:
- Over half (54%) of voters describe American democracy as “not strong,” and a plurality label it a “major crisis”
- Voters see democracy through four distinct lenses: Representation, Free Debate, Institutional Independence, and Electoral Participation
- A plurality of voters volunteer Trump as the biggest threat to American democracy. Voters are most troubled by his actions surrounding the “Free Debate” pillar of democracy.
- Among Trump-approving voters, 47% still want Congress to place checks on his power, especially younger, more moderate supporters
Download the full report to dive deep into the research.