A new Gallup poll released on September 25, 2026, indicates that 43% of Americans now have a positive view of socialism, marking the first time this figure has exceeded 40% since 2010. The survey reveals a decline in favorability for economic concepts such as free enterprise, big business, and capitalism. The increase in support for socialism is particularly notable among independents, with 45% expressing a positive view, up from 37% the previous year. In contrast, the favorability of big business among independents has dropped to 32%.
The poll also shows significant support for socialism among Democrats, with 66% of progressives favoring the ideology, an increase from 50% in 2010. Democrats have rated socialism more positively than capitalism since 2016, with both tied at 65% in current favorability. The favorability rating for capitalism among Democrats has decreased by 7 points in the past year, from 42% to 35%.
Republicans continue to show strong support for small business, free enterprise, and capitalism, with only 14% expressing a positive view of socialism. Favorability for big business among Republicans has increased slightly over the past 16 years, now at 62%.
Demographic analysis reveals that younger Americans, particularly those aged 18-34, are more likely to view socialism positively, with 57% favoring it over capitalism. In contrast, 65% of respondents aged 55 and older view capitalism more favorably than socialism. Adults aged 35 to 54 have similar views on both ideologies.
Gender differences are also evident, with men favoring capitalism over socialism (66% to 35%), while women show a preference for socialism (49% to 45%). Additionally, higher-income Americans earning $100,000 or more express more positive views toward free enterprise and capitalism compared to those earning less than $50,000.