The United States is widely regarded as having the most politically polarized populace in 2025, based on global indices and reports that underscore the profound divisions in American society, outpacing other countries in key measures.
Key drivers of this polarization include rapid escalations in multiple forms: affective polarization, marked by emotional hostility between parties; ideological polarization, with extreme policy stances; and elite polarization, where leaders diverge sharply. Over the last 15 years, this unique combination has heightened social tensions, undermined institutional trust, and reduced opportunities for bipartisan compromise.
The V-Dem Democracy Report 2025 labels U.S. polarization as "toxic," extending beyond policy disagreements to strain personal relationships and social bonds. The 2024 elections exacerbated this, featuring rhetoric and events reminiscent of autocratic strategies, deepening divides during the second Trump administration.
A shrinking moderate base contributes significantly: Just 34% of Americans identify as politically moderate—a historic low—while 77% of Republicans and most Democrats hold radical views. Hot-button issues like immigration, abortion, gun rights, and election legitimacy intensify animosity, with each side perceiving the other as an existential danger.
In global comparisons, nations such as Turkey, India, Hungary, and Brazil exhibit high or toxic polarization, often linked to autocratization or ethnic conflicts. However, the U.S. stands out among established democracies for its intensity. Pew Research places it alongside South Korea in perceived partisan strife, but America's elite and media influences position it as the prime example of contemporary division.
This creates a vicious cycle: Echo chambers fueled by polarized media, social media algorithms, and gerrymandering impede national unity. While countries like Argentina (based on 2023 data) or France grapple with deep rifts, they don't match the U.S.'s blend of severity and worldwide impact.
Many may find this of interest:
A Self-Help Book for Societies:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/102146148-what-s-our-problem