A recent poll conducted by the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research indicates that fewer Americans view the United States as an exceptional nation. As the country approaches its 250th anniversary, only about 25% of respondents believe the U.S. stands above all other countries, a decrease from previous years. Meanwhile, 44% consider it one of the greatest countries alongside others, and approximately 30% believe there are better countries than the U.S., up from 19% in a 2016 poll.
The survey also reveals a decline in the perception of democracy as a vital aspect of American identity. Approximately two-thirds of U.S. adults now regard a democratically elected government as highly important, down from 80% in 2021. Younger Americans, in particular, express skepticism about the U.S.'s uniqueness, with 44% of adults under 30 believing other countries are better, compared to 22% of those aged 60 and older.
Concerns about the American Dream are also prevalent, with 51% of adults stating that the idea of upward mobility through hard work no longer holds true. This sentiment is more pronounced among younger generations, with only 22% of Americans under 30 believing in the American Dream, compared to 46% of those aged 60 and older. The survey highlights a growing divide in perceptions of American identity, democracy, and opportunity across different age groups and political affiliations.