The federal government has reached an all-time low in popularity with the American people, with even a majority of Democrats expressing negative feelings for Washington.

Overall, just 28% of respondents to a new Pew Research Center poll expressed a favorable view of the U.S. government—the lowest ever recorded by Pew.

Even Democrats, who have historically viewed the federal government favorably during Democratic administrations, are fed up. Only 41% said they have a positive outlook, while 51% have a negative one.

Republicans continue to express displeasure towards Washington, with only 13% holding a favorable opinion. Twenty-seven percent of independents said the same.

Americans have much warmer feelings towards lower levels of government. Fifty-seven percent of respondents were okay with their state government, which was up five points from a 2012 survey. Local government had the highest approval ratings, with 63 percent of Americans holding a favorable view.

-Noel Brinkerhoff

To Learn More:

Opinions of the Federal Government Hit All-Time Low (by Eric Katz, Government Executive)

State Governments Viewed Favorably as Federal Rating Hits New Low (Pew Research Center for People and the Press)

Congress Less Popular than Cockroaches, Root Canals and Used Car Salesmen (by Noel Brinkerhoff, AllGov)

Most Americans Like Government; They just don’t Like Who Runs It (by Noel Brinkerhoff, AllGov)