Half of Americans strongly agree with the statement “Democracy may have problems, but it is the best system of government,” and another quarter agree somewhat. Most of the remaining quarter indicate that they neither agree nor disagree.
While the proportion of Americans agreeing that democracy “is the best system of government” differs somewhat along lines of race and ethnicity, income, educational attainment and political affiliation, it differs even more by generation.
Seventy-five percent of those in the Silent Generation, “strongly agree” that democracy is the best form of government. In comparison, 62% of Baby Boomers, 47% of Generation X, 37% of Millennials and only 27% of Generation Z strongly agree that democracy is the best form of government.
Poll director Eric Plutzer said, “The sharp generational differences on multiple questions show that Millennials and, especially, Gen-Z members are disappointed in American democracy. Some may feel that democracy in America today falls far short of our aspirations, and others may feel that their generation has little voice in addressing rising prices, uncertain economic futures, debt and climate change. While most younger voters continue to show strong support for democracy, the widespread disaffection evident in younger generations is a warning sign for the future.”