Key facts
- Most Americans believe fundamental rights are integral to the nation's identity.
- Most Americans believe fundamental rights are under threat.
- Fundamental rights include voting, free speech, and religious freedom.
- Concerns about freedoms are widespread across demographics.
- 47% of Americans identify as independent or other.
- This is a slight increase from the previous year.
- A growing segment of the electorate is outside the two major parties.
A recent AP-NORC poll highlights a widespread concern among Americans regarding the state of fundamental rights. The poll found that a majority of Americans view rights such as voting, free speech, and religious freedom as integral to the nation's identity. However, these same individuals also believe these fundamental freedoms are currently under threat. This sentiment of anxiety about the safety of these rights is prevalent across diverse demographic groups within the United States.
In parallel, a separate CNN poll sheds light on the evolving landscape of political affiliation. This poll indicates that 47% of Americans identify as independent or prefer labels such as 'other,' rather than aligning with either the Democratic or Republican parties. This figure represents a slight increase compared to the previous year, underscoring a growing segment of the American electorate that operates outside the traditional two-party structure. The findings from both polls suggest a populace grappling with concerns over foundational freedoms and increasingly disengaging from established political affiliations.