Gallup Poll: 89% of Americans See Widespread Government Corruption

A new Gallup poll reveals that 89 percent of Americans believe corruption is widespread in the U.S. government, marking the highest level of public distrust recorded in two decades. The figure, released on September 2, 2026, represents a 10-percentage-point increase from the previous year and a significant jump from 73 percent in 2024. The perception of pervasive government corruption has now reached a 30-year high, according to the survey. The poll found that skepticism cuts across traditional party lines, with 91 percent of Democrats, 90 percent of Independents, and 83 percent of Republicans sharing the view that corruption is widespread. The increase has been particularly sharp among Democrats, whose perception of corruption rose from 57 percent in 2024, during former President Joe Biden's final year in office, to 91 percent in 2026. Independents also saw a notable shift, with their concern rising 12 points since 2024. Republican views have remained comparatively stable, hovering around the low-to-mid 80s over the past two years. Gallup noted that the rise in perceived corruption has occurred as President Donald Trump returned to the White House.