A survey carried out between 11 June and 18 June 2026 of 1,862 adults reveals that the vast majority of Americans continue to endorse core national values. An impressive 92 percent say hard work is an important value, 71 percent regard patriotism as important and 68 percent consider belief in God important.
Economic principles retain broad backing
The same poll shows that 92 percent of respondents rate respect for private property, free markets and free enterprise as extremely, very or somewhat important to the United States’ identity as a nation. This level of support stands in contrast to a recent Wall Street Journal headline that claimed “America's Support for Capitalism Has Declined Over Last Decade”.
Pride in history and scepticism of media
When asked about national history, 73 percent describe themselves as extremely, very or moderately proud of America’s past. Yet 44 percent think the news media wields too much power in Washington.
Methodology and context
The National Opinion Research Center – a University of Chicago‑affiliated research centre that works with news organisations, including the Wall Street Journal – conducted the poll. Results carry a margin of sampling error of ± 3.4 percentage points. Notably, 41 percent of those surveyed did not vote in the 2024 presidential election.
Criticism of media presentation
Critics argue that the Wall Street Journal’s coverage selected narrow categories, such as a graphic on pride that only displayed those who were “extremely” or “very” proud, omitting the “moderately” proud respondents. This selective reporting may have contributed to a more negative spin on the findings.
While some Americans express dissatisfaction, the overall picture painted by the data is one of optimism: most citizens are proud of their country and its history, and they continue to value hard work, patriotism and free enterprise. The survey suggests that a nuanced approach – looking at the levels of support for specific values rather than merely tracking changes over time – offers a clearer view of public sentiment as the nation marks its 250th anniversary.