State Of The Union Address: What Polls Show About How Americans Feel About Nation’s Direction

A Gallup poll released Monday provided a mixed view of the direction of the United States ahead of President Trump's State of the Union address.

The polling shows that 84% of Americans are satisfied with the quality of life in the United States and 81% are satisfied with the state of the military. The poll also showed that 68% said they were happy with the state of the U.S. economy, with 63% saying they were satisfied with the position of women in the nation.

However, only 43% of Americans said they were satisfied with the way wealth and income was distributed. The worst marks were for poverty and homelessness, with just 22% saying they were satisfied with the issue. Meanwhile, 60% said they were dissatisfied with the amount Americans pay in federal taxes.

The dissatisfaction with wealth inequality may partially explain the rise of progressive politicians such as Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., who have called for higher taxes on the wealthy. Numerous mass shootings in recent years may also lead Americans to take a negative view of gun policy.

Only 43% of Americans said they were satisfied with the state of government and how it works, with only 41% saying they were satisfied with the size and influence of major corporations.

Corruption has also become a major topic of the 2020 election. Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts has stated she would weed out corruption in her administration and limit corporate power as president.

Trump’s State of the Union address on Feb. 4 is likely to tout the relative strength of the economy. He is expected to reference his “Phase 1” trade deal with China and the USMCA trade agreement with Mexico and Canada. Trump may also explain how he feels the country's national security is in stronger shape after the killing of Iranian commander Qassim Soleimani.

Under Trump, Americans have become more satisfied with the economy and strength of the military but are less satisfied on issues such as abortion, the level of immigration and the environment.

It’s unclear whether the Senate impeachment trial will be finished by the time Trump gives his address.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer will give the Democratic response, with the state playing a vital role in the presidential election this year.