Nearly 9 in 10 Americans report widespread government corruption after Trump's return

Data: Gallup ; Chart: Avery Lotz/Axios Americans' perceptions of government corruption have hit a 20-year high following President Trump's return to office, a new Gallup survey found.

Why it matters: The results signal a deepening crisis of confidence in the federal government as trust in U.S. institutions already hovers near an all-time low.

By the numbers: 89% of U.S. adults say government corruption is widespread, Gallup found .

That's a 10-point increase from last year and well above the 72%–79% range between 2010 and 2025.

Democrats are driving most of the rise, jumping to 91% this year after sitting at 76% during the first year of Trump's term.

In 2024, when President Biden was still in office, 57% of Democrats said government corruption was widespread.

About 90% of independents think corruption is widespread, up 12 points since 2024.

Between the lines: Trump raked in more than $2.2 billion in the first year of his second term.

In 2024, he reported making about $600 million.

A substantial share of Trump's income comes from non-traditional business holdings, like his cryptocurrency business.

He faced criticism after an investment firm tied to the United Arab Emirates bought almost half of his main crypto firm, prmopting accusations of potential foreign influence over U.S. policy.

He's also making money from a new plan to offer early access to his Truth Social posts, which can move markets.

Zoom out: Congressional lawmakers have repeatedly called out what they say are conflicts of interests.

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