Introduction
Recent AP‑NORC polling reveals a significant cultural and partisan divide regarding symbols of national pride in America. As the country approaches its 250th anniversary, the findings indicate differing views among Democrats, Republicans, and independents about what represents the nation’s identity.
Democrats’ Shifting Pride
Democrats are showing more pride in America’s pop culture than in its armed forces. While pride in cultural output remains stable, pride in the military has dropped sharply over the past decade. In 2017, during President Trump’s first term, 74% of Democrats expressed pride in the military. That figure has now fallen to just 42%.
Pride in the military is not the only area of decline. U.S. adults are experiencing lower levels of pride overall compared to AP‑NORC’s 2017 report. Pride in the armed forces, history, democracy, and political influence has decreased significantly.
Pop Culture Pride Among Democrats Surpasses Military Pride
Within major political groups, Democrats stand out for not ranking the military among their top sources of national pride. Republicans, on the other hand, remain overwhelmingly proud of the military, with around 9 in 10 expressing strong pride. In contrast, pride in American pop culture among Democrats remains steady and aligns with Republican pride in the same category.
This suggests cultural expressions, such as music, film, television, and fashion, have become more comfortable avenues for Democratic patriotism.
Decline in Institutional Pride
The decline in military pride is part of a larger trend of reduced pride in national institutions. Pride in democracy, history, and political influence has diminished across the board, with Democrats showing the most considerable declines.
Frustration over political polarization, foreign conflicts, and domestic inequities coincides with Democrats’ declining pride in the military, as highlighted in the poll’s interviews.
Republicans Maintain Strong Military Pride
Republicans consistently anchor their identity in the military. Nearly 90% express significant pride, mirroring broader Republican views of America as “great, prosperous, or powerful.” They are more likely to display the American flag and consider being American vital to their identity.
The military remains a stable symbol of patriotism for Republicans.
Impact on America’s 250th Anniversary
These divides will influence how Americans celebrate the anniversary. According to the AP‑NORC poll:
- About 4 in 10 adults feel proud about the anniversary.
- Democrats are more likely to feel conflicted.
- Republicans are more apt to feel excited.
Official celebrations will prominently feature the military, but Democrats may prefer cultural programming that showcases America’s diversity and creative heritage.
Identity and the Future of Patriotism
The poll indicates a redefinition of American patriotism. Democrats are leaning toward cultural expression, while Republicans maintain their focus on traditional military pride. Independents fall between these viewpoints.
As America enters its next chapter, these differing perspectives will shape political debates and influence how Americans narrate their country’s story and choose symbols to celebrate.