Fox News poll shows mixed US mood ahead of 250th anniversary
A new Fox News national survey released Monday examines American voters’ attitudes as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary. Two-thirds of voters choose a negative word to describe the country, such as “failing” or “divided,” while only about one-quarter offer a positive word like “freedom.” By a 16-point margin, more voters believe Americans are separated by different values (58%) than bound by shared values (42%). National attachment remains strong but has eroded: 81% say they would rather live in the U.S. than anywhere else, down from 93% two decades ago. Enthusiasm for the anniversary is sharply divided, with 74% of Republicans excited compared to 35% of Democrats. The poll was conducted May 15-18, 2026, among 1,002 registered voters and has a margin of sampling error of ±3 percentage points.
What’s reported
Two-thirds of voters choose a negative word to describe the United States today.
Only about one-quarter suggest a positive word, with more than four times as many Republicans as Democrats using those terms.
By a 16-point margin, more voters believe Americans are separated by different values (58%) than bound by shared values (42%).
Over 8 in 10 voters say it is important to emphasize national unity and shared values (85%) and U.S. democratic principles (83%).
81% say they would rather live in the U.S. than any other country, compared to 93% roughly two decades ago.
About 3 in 10 voters under age 30 and Democrats would rather live outside the U.S.
74% of Republicans are excited about the 250th anniversary, compared to 35% of Democrats.
The poll surveyed 1,002 registered voters May 15-18, 2026, with a margin of error of ±3 percentage points.
Key figures
Republican pollster Daron Shaw
Democratic pollster Chris Anderson
Fox News’ Victoria Balara
Sources: foxnews.com
