Pew Research Center | Nonpartisan, nonadvocacy, public opinion polling and data-driven social science research

Key Findings: Public Opinion and Social Trends

• Economic and Political Concerns: Economic issues remain the top priority for Americans. Concerns regarding illegal immigration have declined since the start of Trump’s second term.
• Foreign Policy & Conflict: 69% of Americans worry about gas prices due to the Iran war; 45% believe the U.S. is failing to sufficiently minimize civilian casualties.
• Data Center Expansion: Over 1,500 new data centers are in development, shifting from urban to rural areas (primarily in the South and Midwest). Public perception is generally negative regarding their impact on the environment, energy costs, and local quality of life.
• Artificial Intelligence:
  • Teens are more optimistic about AI than adults; over half of teens use chatbots for schoolwork, and 12% use them for emotional support.
  • Global sentiment (across 25 countries) leans toward concern rather than excitement regarding AI’s impact on daily life.
• Religion and Morality:
  • Few of Trump’s supporters (8% of Republicans, 5% of White evangelicals) view him as "very religious."
  • Religious switching has impacted Catholicism and Protestantism differently.
  • 90% of Americans believe having an affair is morally wrong; significant partisan divides exist regarding abortion and homosexuality.
  • Christian radio stations are accessible to nearly all U.S. adults.
• News Consumption and Media Trust:
  • 49% of adults encounter news incidentally, an increase from 39% in 2019.
  • 36% turn to a preferred news organization during breaking events.
  • 57% of adults have little to no confidence in journalists to act in the public's best interest.
• Polling Methodology: The text highlights the inherent difficulties in "horse race" polling and accurately measuring candidate support.