Just 19% of Americans Say They Trust the Government in Washington

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Created: 25 Oct, 2013
Updated: 21 Nov, 2022
1 min read
As of October 16, public trust in the government rests at near-historic lows, with just 19% of Americans saying they trust the government in Washington to do the right thing always or most of the time.

While this isn't the worst response Pew has on record, with August 2011 paralleling the distrust we see today, it's pretty bad, with the government shutdown drastically impacting public perception of our elected officials.

Pew Research Center graphed public opinion to find that, with the exception of some spikes in trust, over time our trust in the government in Washington has spiraled downward:

Credit: Pew Research Center

Public Trust in Government

Despite short term agreement, the government will find itself yet again racing the clock come 2014, and how they decide to proceed will  significantly impact how the public perceives them.

Can they regain your trust?

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