Majority of Americans Now Say Trump’s Power Must Be Curbed: Poll Signals Widening Concern Over Democracy
A recent national study shows that a growing majority of Americans believe Donald Trump threatens democracy and should be limited. The non-partisan Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI) poll found that 56% of Americans felt that Trump is “a dangerous dictator whose power should be limited before he destroys American democracy.” However, only 41% saw Trump as “a strong leader who should be given the power he needs to restore America’s greatness.”
These findings come as American politics is increasingly divided and faith in leadership and institutions is low. PRRI reported that nearly two-thirds of independents voiced concerns about Trump’s influence, a reversal from Democrats alone opposing him. Tariff hikes, federal program cuts, and immigration policies are frequently perceived as government overreach.
The poll found that 65% of respondents think the U.S. economy is going poorly. Equal numbers were dissatisfied with the federal government. On immigration, 57% believed the country’s undocumented immigration policy is wrong. These data show Americans’ dissatisfaction with national policies and leadership.
Republicans approved of Trump’s job performance at 85%, while 54% of Americans disagreed. Democrats and independents had far lower support. The survey revealed a deep religious and party division. Black Protestants, Hispanic Catholics, and religiously unaffiliated Americans are heavily dubious of his leadership, while white evangelical Protestants remain his strongest supporters.
The poll raised concerns about constitutional checks and balances. About 78% of Americans opposed the president ignoring Congress or the Supreme Court when “they hold our country back.” Just 18% supported such executive power expansion. The evidence reveals that most Americans appreciate institutional restrictions on power, even as some political factions seek for executive latitude.
These views have major repercussions for American democracy. Even if policy differences remain partisan, the fear that one person may gain too much power cuts across age, religion, and race. Political observers say such polling trends may affect voter behavior, campaign strategy, and civic dialogue in the coming months.
The PRRI poll paints a vivid picture of a society battling with policy outcomes, leadership, and the fundamental question of how power should be kept and restricted in a democracy. The findings may indicate public opinion on whether the current system of checks and balances is sufficient in the face of increasingly dominating leadership in the next election cycle.
Sources
Public Religion Research Institute American Values Survey
Religion Dispatches analysis of PRRI survey
Axios coverage of the PRRI poll
