Political polarization – the vast and growing gap between liberals and conservatives, Republicans and Democrats – is a defining feature of American politics today, and one the Pew Research Center has documented for many years.
How we know the drop in Trump’s approval rating in January reflected a real shift in public opinion
The 9-point fall in approval was the largest change between two Pew Research Center polls since Donald Trump took office.
Most Americans say another round of COVID-19 economic relief will be needed
Following the passage of a second stimulus package in December, 79% of U.S. adults say another economic assistance package will be necessary.
How lawmakers’ social media activity changed in the days after the U.S. Capitol riot
Social media activity by members of Congress changed in notable ways following the rioting at the Capitol by supporters of President Trump.
In their own words: How Americans reacted to the rioting at the U.S. Capitol
“Saddened, hurt, disgusted,” one woman in her 50s said. “Never thought I would see anything like this in my life.”
Americans say U.S. can learn a lot from other countries on handling the coronavirus outbreak, other issues
Democrats are far more willing to say the U.S. can learn from other countries on major policy issues than Republicans are.
Once again, nearly all Senate elections reflect states’ presidential votes
The final Senate races of the 2020-21 election cycle continued a pattern: Senate election results are in sync with states’ presidential votes.
What Biden and Trump supporters tell us in their own words about America’s political divisions
Many we surveyed offered thoughtful, respectful – if passionate – affirmations of their own political values.
20 striking findings from 2020
As 2020 draws to a close, here are 20 striking findings from our studies, covering notable trends that emerged during the year.
Democrats more optimistic than Republicans that partisan relations in Washington will improve in 2021
Just 21% of Americans say relations between Republicans and Democrats will get better in the coming year; 37% expect relations to worsen.
Slim majorities have become more common in the U.S. Senate and House
Regardless of how the runoff elections in Georgia go, the Senate will be closely divided next year. And that is part of a long-running trend.
