Polling News

As the country prepares to celebrate on July 4th the 250th anniversary of its founding, confidence in the American Dream is at an all-time low, according to a new AP-NORC poll. These numbers are largely driven by economic confidence, or lack thereof.

By The Numbers:

•  Republicans (57%) are more than twice as likely as both independents (24%) and Democrats (17%) to believe that the American Dream still holds true. More men (39%) are more likely to believe in the American Dream compared to women (29%), and older adults (46%) still believe in the America Dream compared to younger adults (22%). More white adults (40%) believe in it compared to black adults (19%).
• Forty-three percent are not confident they could pay an unexpected medical expense; 42% not confident they could find a job; 46% not confident they’d have enough retirement savings; and 54% not confident they’d be able to buy a house. Among those who believe the American Dream no longer holds true, those numbers are 52%; 48%; 56%; and 65%, respectively.

The Bottom Line: Frustration and discontent with the economy are driving Americans to question whether the U.S. is a land of opportunity and possibilities. When voters are concerned about paying a medical bill or skeptical they could buy a house, optimism and hope diminish. This will lead to less GOP turnout and increased populist angst. Candidates should consider these numbers as a warning and respond by developing policy ideas that restore hope and create confidence that America’s future will be better with GOP at the helm.