New polling suggests the majority Americans are not confident in the nation’s political system.
Only four percent of those surveyed in a new poll from the Pew Research Center believe the political system is working extremely or very well, while 63 percent express little to no confidence in the future of U.S. politics.
Positive views of many governmental and political institutions also are at historic lows, according to Pew.
For example, when asked whether Congress accomplishes more than people give it credit for, 65 percent of those surveyed said that is a bad description, compared to just 32 percent who would consider that statement a good description.
Asked more broadly about the government as a whole, 59 percent said the federal government does not do more for ordinary Americans than what people say.
In terms of the two political parties, 86 percent of U.S. adults say Republicans and Democrats are more focused on fighting each other than solving problems.
Nearly three-in-ten (28 percent) express unfavorable views of both parties, the highest share in three decades of polling. And a comparable share of adults (25 percent) do not feel well-represented by either party.
Eighty-five 85 percent of those surveyed say special interest groups and lobbyists have too much influence over our politics. Large majorities also blame the high costs needed to run a campaign for making it difficult for good people to run for office.
The poll also suggested many Americans are frustrated with their ability to get unbiased information from the media. Nearly seven-in-ten adults expressed frustration with their ability to get unbiased information about politics.