POLIS Index USA for U.S. President
Highlights by Ethnicity
Ethical evaluations of Donald Trump differ by ethnic identification, with non-Hispanic respondents rating him more favourably than Hispanic respondents. Those who identify as not Hispanic, Latino, or of Spanish origin assign Trump a POLIS score of 2.42, compared to a lower score of 2.28 from Hispanic respondents. This 0.14-point gap suggests a modest but consistent difference in perceived ethical credibility.
The slightly higher rating among non-Hispanic Americans may reflect stronger alignment with Trump’s policy positions, communication style, or broader institutional values. While the score is still moderate, it suggests a segment of the population finds his leadership somewhat more ethically trustworthy.
Hispanic respondents, on the other hand, express more skepticism. Their lower POLIS score likely reflects concerns about Trump’s policies and rhetoric on immigration, representation, and institutional fairness—factors that carry particular salience for this community.
Although the difference between the groups is not extreme, it reflects the impact of identity and lived experience in shaping ethical perceptions of political leaders. Trust in leadership values such as benevolence, legitimacy, and accountability may be interpreted differently depending on how a group has been historically treated or politically engaged.
Overall, the POLIS Index shows that Trump’s ethical credibility is viewed less favourably among Hispanic Americans than among non-Hispanic Americans. While the gap is not vast, it underscores the importance of cultural and community-based factors 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.