Most Americans think the federal government should play a large role in reducing economic inequality
Among those who say there is too much economic inequality in the U.S., % saying each of the following should have a lot of responsibility in reducing it

Note: Other response options included “Some,” “Only a little” and “None.”
Source: Survey of U.S. adults conducted Aug. 24-30, 2026.
“Americans’ Views of Economic Inequality, Its Causes and Who Should Fix it”
“Americans’ Views of Economic Inequality, Its Causes and Who Should Fix it”
PEW RESEARCH CENTER
Most Americans think the federal government should play a large role in reducing economic inequality
Among those who say there is too much economic inequality in the U.S., % saying each of the following should have a lot of responsibility in reducing it
| % | |
|---|---|
| The federal government | 72 |
| State governments | 57 |
| Large businesses and corporations | 57 |
| Wealthy individuals | 47 |
| Churches and other religious organizations | 13 |
Note: Other response options included “Some,” “Only a little” and “None.”
Source: Survey of U.S. adults conducted Aug. 24-30, 2026.
“Americans’ Views of Economic Inequality, Its Causes and Who Should Fix it”
“Americans’ Views of Economic Inequality, Its Causes and Who Should Fix it”
PEW RESEARCH CENTER