Stat: 65%:  The percentage of Philadelphians who said the city is “pretty seriously off on the wrong track” in 2023.   Story: Philadelphia is a thriving city with a deep history as the birthplace of American democracy. But Philadelphians, like residents of other large cities, are also grappling with issues such as gun violence, deep poverty, and accessing affordable housing. In a recent survey, 65% of Philadelphians said the city is on the wrong track.   Philadelphia is Pew’s hometown and in this episode, Donna Frisby-Greenwood, who directs the organization’s work in the city, talks about Pew’s legacy and commitment to the residents of Philadelphia—and efforts to make government more responsive to the people. We also hear from Trooper Sanders, CEO of Benefits Data Trust, about the work his organization does to connect people to government benefits they’re eligible for.

Stat: 60% - The share of U.S. adults who have at least some confidence in the future of the U.S. Story: A vibrant democracy requires a government responsive to the people it serves. And although polls show strong dissatisfaction with American democracy, Pew Research Center also found that 60% of Americans have at least some confidence in the future of the country. Seeking to build on that confidence, Pew experts in this episode discuss innovative, bipartisan policy approaches that help make government more responsive to the people, including investments in broadband access and early childhood education programs.

Stat: 6 in 10: The share of Americans who are dissatisfied with the way democracy is working in the United States.   Story: Increased political polarization, shifting societal values, and growing distrust in institutions threatens the public’s confidence in our democratic system. And a recent Pew Research Center survey shows that almost 60% of Americans are dissatisfied with the way democracy is working in the United States. In this episode, we speak to experts from Pew Research Center about the importance of studying public opinion and Americans’ outlook on democracy today. We also speak to Michael Caudell-Feagan of The Pew Charitable Trusts about the ways government is working effectively for people, and about Pew’s historic role in furthering evidence-based policymaking. 

Story: The Pew Charitable Trusts has worked to strengthen democracy in America for 75 years. But today, at a time of growing polarization and waning trust in institutions, those efforts have never been more important. Pew’s nonpartisan, data-driven approach provides facts that offer a shared language about the challenges facing society—and helps disparate parties find common ground. In this episode, Pew’s president and CEO, Susan K. Urahn, talks about Pew’s history and the organization’s efforts to make government more effective. And Jeffrey Rosen of the National Constitution Center discusses how the Constitution is a foundation for resolving disagreement, and why he feels hopeful about America’s future.

A vibrant democracy depends upon an effective government that listens to and acts on the will of the people. Even in these polarized times, with many Americans lacking confidence in the nation’s future, there’s reason for optimism about democracy. In a new season of “After the Fact,” we explore how The Pew Charitable Trusts is using data to make a difference and make government more effective—building trust and helping communities thrive. We also speak to some of the people who are working every day to solve problems, strengthen democracy, and create a better future.