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State of U.S. democracy reaches new low, report finds

NPR • September 15, 2026 • nation

Key Points:

A new global report from the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance reveals that U.S. democracy is at its lowest point in 50 years, with significant declines in freedom of expression, press freedom, credible elections, and effective parliament.
Dr. Seema Shah, head of the institute's democracy assessment team, warns that the global trend of democratic decline is worsening, with increasing public openness to non-democratic governance.
The report highlights the U.S. under President Donald Trump as a primary example, citing the concentration of executive power for personal goals, undermining the rule of law, weakening global alliances, and diminishing the country's role in promoting democracy worldwide.
Nearly 57% of the 174 countries surveyed experienced declines in at least one key democratic indicator, with the rule of law identified as the weakest area globally.
Attempts at democratic resurgence often fail long-term, as 90% of countries that experience a democratic recovery suffer another decline within five years, due to entrenched interests and challenges in enforcing democratic reforms.

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