POLIS Index USA for U.S. President
Highlights by Race
Ethical evaluations of Donald Trump vary across racial groups in the United States, with the highest POLIS score coming from Native American/Alaska Native respondents at 2.58, and the lowest from Asian respondents at just 2.03. These differences highlight the complex ways race intersects with perceptions of political leadership and values-based trust.
White respondents assign Trump a POLIS score of 2.41, indicating a moderate level of ethical credibility. This group rates him above the national average compared to most other racial groups, suggesting a broader acceptance—or at least tolerance—of his leadership style and perceived alignment with institutional or traditional values.
Black respondents rate Trump lower at 2.22, while Native Hawai'ian and Other Pacific Islander respondents give a nearly identical score of 2.20. These scores reflect enduring skepticism from communities that may feel marginalized or harmed by Trump-era policies, rhetoric, or broader governance approaches—especially in relation to equity, fairness, and procedural justice.
Asian respondents offer the lowest ethical assessment of Trump with a POLIS score of 2.03. This may reflect heightened concerns about issues such as xenophobia, institutional integrity, or social inclusion—areas where Trump’s public statements and policy decisions have attracted criticism from Asian American communities.
Overall, the POLIS Index reveals a wide spectrum of ethical perceptions across racial lines. While some groups, like Native American/Alaska Native respondents, are more favourable, others—particularly Asian and Black Americans—express far lower levels of ethical trust in Trump’s leadership. These differences underscore the importance of lived experience and historical context in shaping ethical evaluations of political figures.
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.