Gallup Finds U.S. Perceived Corruption At 20-Year High After Trump Return

According to Axios, a new Gallup survey found that 89% of U.S. adults say government corruption is widespread, the highest level in 20 years and up 10 points from last year. The share is well above the 72% to 79% range seen between 2010 and 2025, with Democrats driving much of the increase to 91% this year from 76% in the first year of President Trump's first term and 57% in 2024, while about 90% of independents now say corruption is widespread, up 12 points from 2024. Axios also reported that Republicans have held a steadier view, with about eight in 10 saying corruption is widespread, roughly in line with 2024. Gallup said the U.S. now ranks highest on perceived corruption among OECD countries, where the median share saying corruption is widespread has fallen from 69% in 2009 to below 60% since 2022.