Global threats split by party and age

A Pew Research Center survey shows dramatic differences in threat perception by political affiliation and age, with climate change and terrorism at the center of the divide.

US views of global threats vary by party and age

A Pew Research Center analysis of 3,605 U.S. adults conducted March 24 to 30, 2025 finds that seven in ten Americans view the spread of false information online as a major threat. The survey also shows that terrorism, the condition of the global economy, climate change, and the spread of infectious diseases are seen as major threats by many Americans. The results reveal clear gaps by party and by age: Democrats and younger adults express greater concern about climate change and diseases, while Republicans and older adults focus more on terrorism.

The study notes that threat perceptions have shifted since 2022, with overall declines in concern on most issues. The most notable change is a growing partisan gap in views of the global economy, while the gap on climate change remains wide. The report also compares the U.S. to other high-income countries, where climate change is viewed as a major threat at higher rates.

The findings reflect a persistent split in how Americans see risk, shaped by political identity and generational experience. This pattern signals that trust in institutions and media literacy will be tested as misinformation proliferates online. It also highlights how values shape what people accept as threats, from climate action to national security.

For policymakers and businesses, the message is clear: any effort to address threats must acknowledge different priorities. A one size fits all approach risks alienating voters and fueling backlash. In the long run, the divide could influence policy choices and how the public evaluates risk communication from government and platforms.

Highlights

The data points to a country learning to navigate risk in a fractured information era.