Public trust in state and local governments is not much higher, and we have seen similar declines in confidence in other countries around the world. This devaluation of government and politics is clearly worrisome, and it makes it all the more difficult for the federal government to carry out its important responsibilities as we enter the 21st century. Thus increased attention has been given lately to the question of why Americans have declining confidence in the federal government. The reasons for the decline are several. Trust in all institutions took a big hit from Vietnam and Watergate, and the sharpest drops in public confidence in government occurred during that time.
People feel high anxiety and a loss of control over their own lives.
To them government seems less relevant and not particularly helpful with their difficult work transitions and their burdensome education, health care, and retirement costs. People are concerned about corruption and low ethical standards among government officials. They believe that many are dishonest and controlled by special interests. People will often say it takes new Members of Congress only a few months to become corrupted by the system. Americans think that one of the best ways to improve public confidence in government is to find more responsive political leaders.