As election season approaches, political divisions seem to dominate discussions across the country.
However, amid this polarization, several issues still unite Americans.
Here’s a breakdown of key areas of hard-majority (60%+) agreement.
Affordable Care Act
According to a recent survey by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, 78% of Americans support making the Affordable Care Act Premium Tax Credit permanent. The Premium Tax Credit is a financial tool to ease the burden of health insurance costs for low and middle-income families. This refundable credit can be applied directly to insurance premiums, reducing the amount out-of-pocket costs for coverage.
This sentiment crosses party lines, with broad consensus that current healthcare costs are unsustainable. High medical expenses continue to deny many Americans necessary, sometimes life-saving treatments.
Related: 10 Drugs Medicare Negotiations Prices for in Historic Deal
Social Security’s Future
Similarly, more than 80% of Americans express concern about Social Security’s longevity — and rightfully so.
Citizens agree that rather than reducing benefits, the government should strengthen support for the program to ensure its long-term viability for both younger and older generations.
Luckily for them both Trump and Harris have pledged to protect the program.
Environmental and Climate Change Action
Environmental issues are also a significant concern for about two-thirds of Americans, who worry about climate change.
Gallup data shows that 61% of respondents attribute rising global temperatures to human activity. This concern has been exacerbated by the fact that 2024 is on track to be the hottest year on record.
Same-Sex Marriage
When it comes to social issues, support for same-sex marriage continues to grow.
A recent Gallup poll reveals that 69% of Americans agree same-sex marriages should be legal, reflecting a steady upward trend from 27% in 1996.
The Economy’s Direction
On the economy, a poll by Suffolk University shows that nearly 70% of Americans believe the economy is worsening, as many struggle with the cost of essentials.
However, some reports highlight positive trends, such as a thriving job market and a drop in inflation since its peak in June 2022.
Public Education
Education remains a priority as well.
A significant portion of Americans (76%) believe the teacher shortage can be mitigated by increasing salaries for K-12 educators, acknowledging their crucial role in shaping future generations.
Moreover, 78% of Americans support funding school lunch programs for children from financially insecure families.
Medical Debt Leniency
Debt relief is another area where a majoirty of Americans agree. While the topic of student loan forgiveness remains contentious, 67% of respondents believe the government should offer leniency to those burdened by medical debt to alleviate healthcare-related financial stress.
Presidential Integrity
Integrity in the presidency is a top concern for 89% of Americans, who view honesty as a critical quality for leadership. Additionally, 69% back the Presidential Records Act, which aims to ensure that departing presidents maintain transparent records of their actions.
Racial Equality
On racial inequality, 69% of Americans agree the nation should prioritize addressing systemic disparities in education, employment, the criminal justice system, and housing.
Despite these concerns, a significant portion of the population believes the government still has more work to do in addressing historical injustices, particularly those affecting Black Americans.
Texas Has the Best BBQ
Finally, no conversation about American unity would be complete without mentioning Texas BBQ. Polls consistently rank Texas as the top state for barbecue, with 73% of Americans naming it the best destination for smoky, flavorful meats.
These areas of agreement highlight the potential for common ground, even in an era of stark political division.
United we stand.
