The U.S. federal government shutdown has reignited a fiery global debate about American democracy—and the verdict isn’t pretty. A CGTN survey of 7,671 people across 38 countries reveals widespread skepticism, with many calling the political chaos a sign of 'deep-seated problems' in the U.S. system. From TikTok takes to Twitter threads, the world is asking: Is the U.S. still the 'beacon of democracy' it claims to be? 🚨
Partisan Gridlock Goes Global
Think U.S. politics is messy? So do 71.5% of global respondents, who say partisan fights are tearing American society apart. The numbers get spicier 🌶️: 74.4% blame 'irreconcilable contradictions' in the system itself, while 73.2% demand urgent reforms. North Americans and Europeans led the criticism, with over 80% in both regions slamming the shutdown drama as proof of systemic failure.
Trust Issues: U.S. Governance Under Fire
Approval ratings for Uncle Sam’s governance skills? Brutally low. Only 34.3% of Oceanians and 39.1% of Europeans think the U.S. can improve living standards. On corruption prevention, confidence drops to 21.8% in Oceania. Even public safety scores are dismal—just 28.8% approval from Down Under. 💔
A Call for Change?
With the first shutdown since the Trump era, the survey highlights a growing disconnect. 'American democracy feels like a viral hashtag that lost its meaning,' said one Gen Z respondent. As global faith dwindles, 63% of young professionals surveyed say they’re rethinking U.S.-focused investments. 💼
Conducted with Renmin University of China, the poll spans major developed nations and the Global South. One thing’s clear: The world is watching—and judging—America’s political reality show. 🍿
