POLIS Index USA for Political Parties
Highlights by Employment Status
Ethical perceptions of political parties in the United States differ across employment status, with the Democratic Party consistently rated more favourably than the Republican Party across all groups. Part-time workers give the Democratic Party the highest POLIS score at 3.14, compared to 2.42 for the Republican Party—a sizable gap of 0.71 points. This suggests strong ethical alignment between the Democratic Party and part-time employed Americans.
Among full-time workers, the Democratic Party receives a POLIS score of 2.91, while the Republican Party earns 2.47. Similarly, those not in paid work assign the Democrats 2.86 and the Republicans 2.52. In both groups, Democrats hold a modest but clear ethical trust advantage, indicating broader appeal among individuals with stable or non-working employment statuses.
Unemployed respondents show the lowest scores overall but maintain the same pattern: the Democratic Party scores 2.90, and the Republican Party 2.23. This 0.67-point difference suggests that individuals experiencing joblessness view the Democratic Party as more ethically aligned—possibly reflecting greater trust in its approach to social and economic support systems.
Self-employed Americans also favour the Democratic Party, albeit with the narrowest margin. The POLIS score for Democrats is 2.84, while Republicans receive 2.39. While both ratings are slightly lower than in other groups, the Democrats continue to hold an ethical edge, indicating a modest preference even among more independently employed individuals.
Overall, the POLIS Index reveals that the Democratic Party holds an ethical credibility advantage across every employment status group. While the size of the gap varies, the consistent pattern highlights how perceptions of ethical leadership are shaped by economic circumstances and the values associated with employment security, support, and representation.
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.