Current Issues (2025) Top Problems Facing the U.S.

Current Issues

  • Inflation and bipartisan cooperation are top concerns: 62% and 60% respectively view them as very big problems. These issues reflect economic pressures and political challenges in the U.S.

  • Other significant issues: healthcare affordability (57%), drug addiction (55%), federal budget deficit (53%), illegal immigration (51%), gun violence (49%), violent crime (48%), and moral values (46%). Each of these issues contributes to the multifaceted challenges faced by the U.S.

Inflation

  • 62% of Americans see inflation as a major problem, down from 70% in 2022. This indicates a slight easing of concerns regarding rising costs, but it remains a significant issue.

  • Partisan divide: 80% of Republicans vs. 46% of Democrats view inflation as a very big problem, highlighting differing perspectives based on political affiliation.

Federal Budget Deficit

  • 53% of the public considers the federal budget deficit a very big problem, reflecting concerns about the nation's financial stability.

  • Republicans (71%) are about twice as likely as Democrats (35%) to view it as a major issue, showcasing partisan differences in fiscal priorities.

Unemployment

  • Only about 25% of Americans see unemployment as a very big problem, suggesting relative stability in the job market compared to other concerns.

Illegal Immigration

  • 51% of the public views illegal immigration as a very big problem, up from 47%, indicating increasing concerns about border security and immigration policies.

  • 78% of Republicans vs. 27% of Democrats consider it a major concern, underscoring partisan polarization on immigration issues.

Crime and Gun Violence

  • Fewer Americans view gun violence and violent crime as very big problems compared to last year, yet they remain significant concerns.

  • Democrats are more likely to view gun violence as a very big problem (68% vs. 27% of Republicans), reflecting different perspectives on gun control measures.

  • Republicans are more likely to view violent crime as a very big problem (56% vs. 39% of Democrats), highlighting differing priorities in addressing public safety.

Climate Change

  • 36% of Americans say climate change is a very big problem, down from 2021, suggesting shifting priorities or perceptions regarding environmental issues.

Racism

  • 29% of Americans view racism as a very big problem, a decline since 2021, but it remains a significant societal challenge.