Poll: Fewer Americans View the U.S. as Exceptional Ahead of Nation's 250th Anniversary
A new AP-NORC survey found that 44 percent of Americans consider the U.S. one of the greatest countries in the world, with about one-quarter saying it stands above all others. The poll was released as the country approaches its 250th birthday in 2026. The findings suggest a notable shift in how Americans perceive their country's standing on the world stage.
An Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll released Monday found declining levels of American exceptionalism sentiment among U.S. adults ahead of the nation's 250th anniversary. Forty-four percent of respondents described the U.S. as one of the greatest countries in the world, while approximately one-quarter said the U.S. stands above all other nations. The survey reflects a measurable erosion in the share of Americans who hold the strongest views of U.S. greatness. The findings come at a politically charged moment, as debates over national identity, global leadership, and domestic policy remain deeply divisive. The results may carry implications for how political leaders frame patriotic messaging heading into the semiquincentennial celebrations.
What's missing
The report does not specify how current figures compare to historical polling on American exceptionalism, which would help clarify whether this represents a long-term trend or a more recent shift. Demographic breakdowns by party, age, or region would also provide important context for interpreting the results.
How coverage differed
Coverage from The Hill, a center-leaning outlet, presented the findings in a straightforward, data-driven manner without strong editorial framing. With only one source available, it is unclear how outlets across the political spectrum may have contextualized or emphasized different aspects of the poll results.
What different sources said
- The HillCenter
Fewer Americans see US as exceptional ahead of 250th birthday: Survey
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