Government

Americans view their state and local governments far more positively than the federal government in Washington.

Most Americans say religion's influence is shrinking, and about half (48%) see conflict between their own religious beliefs and mainstream American culture.

The most common kinds of government restrictions on religion in 2021 included harassment of religious groups and interference in worship.

In 2021, government restrictions on religion – laws, policies and actions by state officials that limit religious beliefs and practices – reached a new peak globally. Harassment of religious groups and interference in worship were two of the most common forms of government restrictions worldwide that year.

Majorities of White Christian groups say the large number of migrants seeking to enter at the border with Mexico is a “crisis” for the United States.

Just 24% say the country’s problems could be better solved if presidents didn’t have to worry about Congress or the courts.

Americans overwhelmingly see small businesses as having a positive effect on the way things are going in the country. By contrast, their views of large corporations are broadly negative. And most people – including identical shares in both parties – are critical of the impact of banks and financial institutions.

Donald Trump has a wide lead for the Republican Party’s presidential nomination. His supporters stand out from Republicans who back Ron DeSantis or Nikki Haley in their desire for a presidential candidate who will push hard for policies that Republican voters want.

Here’s a look back at 2023 through some of our most striking research findings.

Nearly two-thirds of the federal judges President Joe Biden has appointed so far are women, and the same share are members of racial or ethnic minority groups.