POLIS Index USA for U.S. President
Highlights by Generational Cohort
Ethical perceptions of Donald Trump vary considerably across generations in the United States. The trend is clear: the older the generation, the higher their ethical evaluation of Trump. Generation Z gives Trump the lowest POLIS score at 2.22, followed by Millennials at 2.28, Generation X at 2.40, and Baby Boomers at 2.55. This pattern suggests that younger Americans view Trump as significantly less aligned with core ethical values than older generations do.
The steepest gap lies between Generation Z and Baby Boomers, with a difference of 0.33 points. This gap likely reflects stark generational differences in how values such as accountability, transparency, and fairness are interpreted or expected from political leaders. For younger voters especially, Trump appears to fall short on these key democratic expectations.
Generation X sits in the middle with a POLIS score of 2.40, reflecting a more mixed ethical assessment. While still skeptical, Gen X voters rate Trump more favourably than Millennials or Gen Z, though not to the same extent as Baby Boomers. Their intermediate stance may signal a combination of generational conservatism and greater political pragmatism.
Baby Boomers, who assign Trump the highest POLIS score, are the only group to approach moderate ethical approval. Their relatively higher evaluation may stem from perceptions of Trump's competence, legitimacy, or traditional leadership style—dimensions that may resonate more strongly with older voters' expectations of political authority.
Overall, the POLIS Index reveals a generational divide in ethical evaluations of Donald Trump. While older Americans, particularly Baby Boomers, view him more favourably, younger generations remain largely unconvinced of his ethical alignment with democratic norms. This divide underscores the importance of generational values in shaping public trust in political leadership.
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.