Public Opinion Split on U.S. Government Spending Priorities amid Calls for Cuts
Recent AP-NORC polling reveals complex views on government spending, with many believing overspending occurs alongside needs for more funding for key programs like Social Security.
The perpetual challenge for lawmakers is that although U.S. adults mostly think the government isn’t spending enough on key issues and programs, they are broadly in favor of cuts to the federal budget.
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The perpetual challenge for lawmakers is that although U.S. adults mostly think the government isn’t spending enough on key issues and programs, they are broadly in favor of cuts to the federal budget.
Where U.S. adults think the government is spending too much, according to AP-NORC polling
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The perpetual challenge for lawmakers is that although U.S. adults mostly think the government isn't spending enough on key issues and programs, they are broadly in favor of cuts to the federal budget.
Where US adults think the government is spending too much, according to AP-NORC polling
ABC News·3M·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.CenterThis outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.The perpetual challenge for lawmakers is that although U.S. adults mostly think the government isn’t spending enough on key issues and programs, they are broadly in favor of cuts to the federal budget.
Where US adults think the government is spending too much, according to AP-NORC polling
Associated Press·3M·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.CenterThis outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
Summary
Recent AP-NORC polling shows that while many Americans believe the federal government overspends overall, there’s widespread sentiment that funding for Social Security, education, and other major programs is too low. About two-thirds of respondents say the government spends too little on Social Security and education, and a similar proportion feels the same about Medicare and assistance for the poor. Interestingly, despite calls for budget cuts from figures like Trump and Musk, a significant majority believe foreign aid is excessive. The challenge for lawmakers is addressing these differing priorities as 6 in 10 Americans also favor overall budget cuts.
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