Majority Americans Say Political Divisions Too Deep to Resolve, Poll Finds

A series of recent polls, including a New York Times-Siena University survey, reveal that a majority of Americans believe the United States is too politically divided to effectively solve its problems, with only about one-third expressing faith in the political system. The key concerns have shifted from economic issues like inflation and immigration to political polarization and the state of democracy, which now rank higher among voters' worries. The polls highlight deep partisan divides over President Donald Trump's actions, with many Democrats and independents viewing him as exceeding his powers and posing a unique threat to American democracy, while most Republicans disagree. Despite the pessimism, a small but notable portion of voters from both parties resist demonizing the opposition, indicating some lingering optimism for political coexistence. These findings come amid a backdrop of increased political violence and threats, including the assassination of a conservative activist and an assassination attempt on President Trump himself. Overall, the polls underscore Americans' growing concern about the nation's political dysfunction and polarization, while also showing that many still see the country as a democracy and hope for constructive dialogue.