Numbers, Facts and Trends Shaping Your World

Most Americans think the federal government should play a large role in reducing economic inequality


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
Chart
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”
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 government72
State governments57
Large businesses and corporations57
Wealthy individuals47
Churches and other religious organizations13

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”
PEW RESEARCH CENTER

Icon for promotion number 1

Sign up for our weekly newsletter

Fresh data delivered Saturday mornings

Thank you for subscribing!

Processing…