Poll Finds Growing Doubt About the American Dream

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American flags fly over the National Mall in Washington, Friday, Feb. 27, 2026, as new polling shows more Americans questioning whether the American Dream still exists. (AP Photo/Allison Robbert)
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WASHINGTON (AURN News) — More and more Americans are questioning whether the American Dream still exists, according to new polling.

A recent poll from The Times and YouGov suggests growing skepticism about whether the idea still applies in today’s economy.

When asked if the American Dream exists, 38% said no or were not sure. Another 15% said it exists for others but not for them.

At the same time, 38% said the American Dream still exists for everyone, while 8% said it exists for them personally but not for others.

The data also shows that 59% of those surveyed said the American Dream is less attainable now than when they were growing up.

There is also a sharp political divide. Among Republicans, 57% said the American Dream exists, compared with 28% of Democrats.


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