FOLLOW US

Today, our country is faced with many issues. Policy-driven disputes and the rise of political division certainly make the top of the list. However, another issue is a complete lack of trust in the system among the American people.

It is precisely this lack of trust that's led to myriad populist elements emerging on both the left and the right. Some politicians warned about what they perceive as the dangers of populism; though the underlying factors driving populist sentiment have yet to be addressed.

This week, a newly released poll showcased the significant lack of trust in America's political system. To say that people should be concerned would be a significant understatement.

Overwhelming majority of Americans agree the system is failing

In a survey released by the Pew Research Center, it's come to light that 63% of people lack confidence in America's politics.

Furthermore, over six in ten Americans confirmed they disagree with the notion that Congress accomplishes more than it's acknowledged for. Barely over three in ten people expressed agreement with this claim.

Additional poll findings reveal a staggering 86% of Americans agree the GOP and Democrat Party care more about trading blows with one another than finding solutions to problems.

On a similar note, 85% agreed that our nation's political system remains too heavily influenced by different lobbyists and special interest groups.

28% of US citizens then told Pew Research Center they disfavor both of America's major political parties. 25% even agreed that both Republicans and Democrats do a poor job of representing them.

Finally, almost 70% of Americans said they believe political bias continues to permeate the US news media.

The bottom line

The sobering findings from this latest poll send a very clear message. Most Americans feel underrepresented by the current political system. They also think the system isn't working for them and instead prioritizes other matters.

Every time an election comes around, leaders on both sides of the aisle vow to turn things around. Virtually every politician insists that electing them will ensure everyday Americans have a fighter for them in office.

So far, most people have yet to share this sentiment.