Declining National Pride: A Troubling Trend
A recent Gallup poll has uncovered a stark decline in American pride, reaching a historic low just days before the July 4 holiday. According to the survey conducted between June 3 and June 23, only 58% of U.S. adults say they are 'extremely' or 'very' proud to be American, marking the lowest point in Gallup's 25-year trend of tracking this sentiment. This downturn reflects a growing disillusionment among certain segments of the population, with significant differences emerging across political affiliations.
The data highlights a particularly sharp drop among Democrats, with only 36% expressing that they are 'extremely' or 'very' proud to be American. This figure represents a dramatic decline from previous years, such as 62% in earlier polls reported in 2025. Independents also show a notable decrease, with 53% feeling proud, a new low for this group. Meanwhile, Republicans remain steadfast, with 92% affirming their pride in the nation.
Partisan Divide and Underlying Causes
The partisan divide in national pride is now at its widest since Gallup began measuring it in 2001, with a 56-percentage-point gap between Republicans and Democrats. This split underscores deeper societal and political tensions that have evolved over recent years. Analysts point to various factors contributing to this disparity, particularly among younger Americans who are more likely to identify as Democrats or Independents.
One significant factor cited in the poll is pessimism about the economy. Younger generations, grappling with financial uncertainties and rising costs, appear to harbor growing doubts about the state of the nation. This economic discontent, combined with other social and political grievances, has fueled a sense of disconnection from traditional notions of American pride among these groups. While Republicans maintain a strong sense of patriotism, the overall trend suggests a nation wrestling with its identity and future direction.
Implications for America's Future
The findings of this Gallup poll raise important questions about the cohesion and spirit of the United States as it approaches key national celebrations like Independence Day. With pride at a record low among significant portions of the population, there is a pressing need to address the underlying issues driving this sentiment. Whether it's economic reforms, social initiatives, or bridging political divides, the path forward requires a collective effort to restore faith in the American ideal.