POLIS Index USA for Political Parties
Highlights by Generational Cohort
Ethical perceptions of political parties in the United States differ across generations, but the Democratic Party consistently receives higher ratings than the Republican Party. The largest gap is observed among Generation Z, where the Democratic Party receives a POLIS score of 3.13, compared to just 2.39 for the Republican Party—a difference of 0.74 points. This suggests a strong generational preference for the ethical values associated with Democratic leadership among the youngest voters.
Millennials also show a clear preference for the Democratic Party, assigning it a POLIS score of 2.94, while the Republican Party scores significantly lower at 2.38. These results reflect a continued generational divide, with younger Americans evaluating the Democratic Party as more ethically trustworthy—possibly due to its emphasis on inclusivity, fairness, and accountability.
Among Generation X, the Democratic Party scores 2.79 and the Republican Party 2.47. While the difference narrows slightly to 0.32 points, the Democrats still maintain a clear lead in ethical evaluations. This suggests that even in middle-aged cohorts, the Democratic Party’s values resonate more strongly in terms of perceived moral credibility.
Baby Boomers provide the most favourable evaluation of the Republican Party among all age groups, awarding it a POLIS score of 2.58. However, the Democratic Party still outperforms it with a score of 2.98. Although the gap is smallest here (0.40 points), the Democrats retain their lead in ethical trust even among older Americans.
Overall, the POLIS Index reveals a consistent generational pattern: younger cohorts express the highest ethical trust in the Democratic Party and the lowest in the Republican Party, while older generations are more balanced but still favour the Democrats. This generational gradient highlights the evolving moral expectations and values that shape public trust in political parties across the age spectrum.
What values do people in democratic nations want their political parties to imbue and represent?
Integrity
Integrity means acting consistently with one’s principles and telling the truth, even when it's inconvenient. In a democracy, people expect their political representatives to follow through on promises and live up to the values they claim to hold. Without integrity, public trust quickly erodes.
Benevolence
Benevolence reflects care, compassion, and a commitment to serving the public rather than personal or partisan interests. Citizens expect those in power to act in the best interest of society, especially for vulnerable or underserved groups. When benevolence is lacking, politics can feel distant and self-serving.
Accountability
Accountability means being answerable for decisions and willing to admit mistakes. Democratic systems rely on the idea that leaders serve the people and must face consequences if they fall short. When accountability is strong, citizens feel empowered to demand better.
Legitimacy
Legitimacy is the belief that those in power deserve their authority and represent the people fairly. It’s not just about winning elections — it’s about earning public trust through ethical, democratic leadership. Without legitimacy, political systems struggle to function effectively or peacefully.
Competence
Competence is the ability to get things done — to design effective policies, manage resources, and solve problems. In democratic societies, voters want leaders who can deliver real results and meet the needs of diverse communities. Good intentions matter, but capable execution is essential.
Transparency
Transparency is about openness — making decisions visible, explaining them clearly, and sharing information honestly. In a democracy, people have a right to know how decisions are made and why. Transparency builds public confidence and helps prevent corruption or manipulation.
Procedural Fairness
Procedural fairness ensures that rules are applied equally, decisions are made impartially, and everyone is treated with respect. In a diverse democracy, fairness is the foundation of legitimacy — it reassures people that the system is not biased or rigged. Fair processes create faith in just outcomes.