Republicans are less inclined to consider a non-political civil service as crucial, as per a recent survey

In a recent survey conducted between March 31 and April 6, 2025, as part of an annual study measuring the public's trust in government, a notable shift has been observed. The 18-34 demographic now holds the highest level of trust in the government, with 36% expressing confidence, followed closely by 35- to 49-year-olds.

This increase in trust has been particularly pronounced among Republicans. In comparison to 10% in 2024, 42% of Republicans now say they trust the government. This rise has been most significant among younger Republicans, with trust increasing fivefold from 9% in 2024 to 46% in 2025 for those under 50. On the other hand, trust among Republicans aged 50 and over has grown modestly from 11% to just 38%.

The decline in distrust has been observed across the board, with the number of participants who don't trust federal employees decreasing from 32% to 23%. This decrease has been most pronounced among Republicans (87% to 66%) and independents (79% to 34%).

However, the survey also reveals a decrease in public support for a nonpartisan civil service, with support dropping from 87% in 2024 to 67%. More Republicans and independents are now uncertain about the importance of a nonpartisan civil service. In fact, 64% of GOP respondents believe the president should have the right to fill any government job with people who agree with their policies.

Interestingly, the survey results show that overall trust in the federal government has increased from 23% in 2024 to 33%. This increase has been accompanied by a decrease in the percentage of respondents who agree that the federal government is wasteful, dropping from 85% in 2024 to 61% in 2025.

Historically, Democrats and Republicans have shown a tendency to trust the government more when their party controls the White House. However, the survey results indicate a divide on this issue, with trust among Democrats 50 and over decreasing from 49% to 27%, while trust among those under 50 has slightly increased from 34% to 35%.

The survey findings come amidst efforts by Donald Trump to reshape the federal workforce, with more Republicans expressing support for increased political influence. Elon Musk leads the Department of Government Efficiency with the goal of eliminating waste, but critics argue that the department's non-strategic slashing of agency workforces has worsened federal services.

In June, a survey by the Partnership found that most Americans oppose the layoffs of federal workers and agency funding cuts. The survey results suggest a complex and evolving landscape of public trust in government, with shifts in attitudes that warrant continued observation and analysis.

Republicans are less inclined to consider a non-political civil service as crucial, as per a recent survey