A new national survey has found that Americans’ pride in their country’s history and democratic system has been steadily declining since 2017. The findings show that, over the past decade, fewer Americans say they feel proud of the United States, its history, and the way its democracy functions.
The survey was conducted jointly by The Associated Press (AP) and the NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. According to the results, Americans have become less proud of several key aspects of their country, including its history, democratic institutions, military, and global influence.
The poll was carried out in April and also examined public perceptions of the U.S. military and America’s role on the world stage.
The survey was conducted during a period of heightened international tensions, when the United States was involved in military operations against Iran. It also came amid ongoing regional instability involving the Strait of Hormuz, making foreign policy a significant backdrop to the findings.
Only 53% Say They Are Extremely or Very Proud to Be American
According to the survey, only 53% of American adults said they were “extremely” or “very” proud to be American in April. That is the lowest level recorded since 2001, marking a significant decline in national pride.
The Associated Press reported that the drop reflects a turbulent period in American history, including former President Donald Trump‘s first term in office, the COVID-19 pandemic, and years of rising inflation that also affected the popularity of former President Joe Biden.
The nearly decade-long period covered by the survey also includes part of President Trump’s current second term, during which his administration has pursued more aggressive domestic and foreign policies than in the past.
Those policies include stricter immigration enforcement at home, as well as major foreign policy decisions, including closer military coordination with Israel and actions related to the conflict involving Iran.