A recent poll conducted by the Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies (IGS) reveals that a significant majority of Californians believe U.S. democracy is facing serious challenges. The survey, released on July 10, shows that 64% of registered voters feel that “American democracy is under attack,” while another 26% think it is “being tested.”
Eric Schickler, co-director of IGS, noted the shift in public perception: “These results underscore the deep concerns that many California voters have about the state of American democracy.” He added that such views are now part of a new ‘normal,’ indicating a worrying trend.
The poll highlights widespread concern across different voter demographics. Among Democrats, 81% believe democracy is under attack, with 61% of voters with no party preference sharing this view. Nearly four in ten Republicans agree, with similar numbers indicating democracy is being tested.
Racial groups also expressed concern, with Black voters most likely to say democracy is under attack at 74%, followed by white voters at 69%, and Latinx and Asian/Pacific Islander voters at 59%. Age-wise, those 65 and older were most concerned (70%), while younger voters aged 18-29 were less so but still worried (60%).
The poll also found that Californians have low trust in political, business, and tech leaders. Nearly 80% expressed little or no trust in tech leaders acting in the public’s best interest. Leora Gershenzon from the California Initiative for Technology and Democracy commented on this sentiment: “It’s no surprise that Californians have little trust in tech companies and their leadership.”
Respondents showed more trust towards community-based non-profit groups and the courts. About 62% trust non-profits somewhat or a lot, with Democrats more trusting than Republicans. Similarly, 57% trust the courts somewhat or a lot.
The IGS Poll was conducted online among 6,474 registered voters from June 2-6 in multiple languages. It was funded by the Evelyn & Walter Haas, Jr. Fund.
The UC Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies continues its mission as a leading research center focusing on public policy issues.
