Fewer say US federal government improves their lives, poll finds

The share of Americans who believe the federal government is effective at improving their lives has dropped significantly since last year, a warning sign for Republicans struggling to assuage voters’ cost of living concerns and keep control of Washington.

Forty-three percent of US adults say the federal government is effective at bettering people’s lives, down from 51% in 2025, according to a new Bentley University-Gallup survey.

In comparison, 58% say state and local governments improve their lives, while 56% say the same of businesses and 77% of charitable and advocacy groups.

At the same time, more than nine in 10 Americans say the federal government has the power to make a positive impact on society — suggesting many believe the current administration is not making use of that power.