Gallup

A new Gallup poll released Tuesday shows confidence in the U.S. Supreme Court has fallen to 33 percent, a record low in 26 years and a 6-point decrease since 2025. The decline is driven by a drop in Republican support following the completion of the court's 2025-2026 term. The poll marks the lowest approval rating for the court in over two decades, reflecting growing public dissatisfaction.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 04:42 PM UTC

On July 4, 2026, the Trump administration launched "Trump Accounts" (530A accounts), providing $1,000 government seed money for children born 2025-2028, plus $250 for lower-income children born 2016-2024. Managed by Bank of New York Mellon and Robinhood, accounts invest in U.S. stock funds, convert to IRAs at age 18, and allow up to $5,000 annual contributions. Major donors include Michael Dell and Micron. Critics warn the program may worsen wealth inequality.

21 reports · 6 sources · Updated Jul 27, 05:11 PM UTC

A recent Lloyd’s Register Foundation World Risk Poll, conducted with Gallup, reveals that 10 percent of American respondents now consider politics the 'greatest source of risk' to their everyday safety, up from 6 percent in both 2021 and 2023. The finding indicates a growing perception among Americans that political divisions or tensions pose a direct threat to personal security. The poll highlights a notable shift in public risk perception over the past few years, suggesting increasing anxiety about the political environment in the United States.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 01:48 PM UTC

Investor Michael Burry, famous for predicting the 2008 financial crisis, posted on social media that 95% of investors have no real idea what they own and prefer it that way. The article examines whether this claim is accurate and whether it matters. Citing an Empower survey, only 44% of American adults are confident in their investment decisions. About 60% of U.S. adults have retirement accounts, with many using target-date funds that require minimal active management. The article suggests that while many investors may lack detailed knowledge of their holdings, this may not be problematic if they are using appropriate vehicles like target-date funds for long-term goals such as retirement. The piece explores different investment goals and strategies, noting that short-term and long-term investing require different approaches.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 04:37 PM UTC

Investor Michael Burry, famous for predicting the 2008 financial crisis, posted on social media that 95% of investors have no real idea what they own and prefer it that way. The article examines this claim using survey data. An Empower study found only 44% of American adults are confident in making good investments, and 30% rely on financial advisors. Over 85% invest with specific goals, primarily retirement (40%). A Gallup poll shows 60% of U.S. adults have a retirement account, with high overlap between stock and retirement account ownership. Many use target-date funds, which are set-and-forget options, suggesting they may not know their exact holdings. The article questions whether investor ignorance is necessarily a problem, given that many invest for long-term goals like retirement through managed accounts.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 04:37 PM UTC

Costco is significantly expanding its pharmacy and prescription services as part of a broader strategy to enhance membership value beyond traditional warehouse retail. During the third-quarter 2026 earnings call, CFO Gary Millerchip reported strong pharmacy performance driven by increased GLP-1 medication demand (including Wegovy and Ozempic), competitive pet medications, acceptance of Medicare D over-the-counter flex cards, and expansion of mail order and specialty pharmacy offerings. The company is leveraging recurring prescription visits to drive additional in-store purchases and strengthen membership retention. Mail order pharmacy services are gaining popularity, with a 2025 JD Power survey showing higher customer satisfaction for mail order compared to in-store pharmacy services. Costco's membership fee income reached $1.37 billion in the most recent quarter, underscoring the financial logic of using pharmacy services to boost membership renewal rates.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 09:03 AM UTC

GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, now used by 11% of U.S. adults, are reducing alcohol cravings and changing drinking habits, according to clinical trials and industry observations. Research published in The Lancet and JAMA Psychiatry shows semaglutide lowers drinks per drinking day and alcohol cravings. Bars and restaurants report customers increasingly ordering one premium cocktail then switching to non-alcoholic drinks, threatening the traditional 'second round' revenue stream. The trend creates risks for spirits brands reliant on volume consumption but opportunities for premium single-serve and alcohol-free products. Industry operators note the behavioral shift is most pronounced at the second drink order.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 07:21 PM UTC

Dustin Drai, president of Drai's Management Group, is overhauling Las Vegas nightlife to address shifting consumer expectations. With alcohol consumption at a historic low (54% of US adults in 2025) and Las Vegas visitor numbers down 7.5%, Drai is introducing transparent pricing and value-driven experiences. New offerings include a $99 VIP open-bar wristband for clear upfront costs and a $695 Cotton Candy & Caviar package for premium experiences. Drai emphasizes that bottle service alone no longer guarantees perceived value, and that guests increasingly demand transparency, intentional spending, and memorable experiences. His background in entry-level operations and talent coordination informs his focus on hospitality and guest retention.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 07:18 PM UTC

This analysis from the Lowy Institute's The Interpreter examines the deep-seated economic pessimism among Australians, linking it to global trends rather than just domestic economic data. It notes that similar pessimism is widespread across the UK, Japan, the EU, and the US, where negative views have persisted since 2021. The article argues that Australians' gloom is not solely due to falling real wages and depleted household buffers, but also stems from a growing sense of insecurity as the international rules-based order, unimpeded sea routes, Asian economic growth, and free trade—the foundations of Australia's decades-long prosperity—are rapidly eroding. The 2026 Lowy Poll found for the first time that a majority of Australians feel unsafe, with a global economic downturn ranked as the second-highest perceived threat after cyberattacks.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 02:00 PM UTC

This analysis from the Lowy Institute's The Interpreter examines widespread economic pessimism in Australia, linking it to global trends. Australians are not alone; similar sentiments prevail in the UK, Japan, the EU, and the US, where economic confidence has been negative since 2021. The article argues that beyond falling real wages and depleted household buffers, Australians' pessimism stems from a keen awareness that the foundations of their prosperity—the international rules-based order, open sea routes, Asian economic growth, and free trade—are eroding. The 2026 Lowy Poll found a majority of Australians feel unsafe globally, with economic downturn ranked as the second-highest threat after cyberattacks. The piece concludes that economic pessimism correlates with growing insecurity as the world shifts away from these pillars.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 02:00 PM UTC

A recent Echelon Insights poll shows that 53% of respondents view the 'free market economy' favorably, compared to 49% for 'capitalism,' with unfavorable views of capitalism (29%) more than double those for free market (12%). Similar trends appear in Gallup, Napolitan News Service, and Reason-Rupe polls, with 'capitalism' polling especially poorly among younger people. The author, a libertarian commentator, attributes this to widespread political ignorance and the negative connotations of 'capital' and 'capitalists,' noting that 'capitalism' was first popularized by 19th-century socialists. The article advises free-market advocates to use terms like 'free market' or 'free enterprise' instead of 'capitalism' to avoid negative associations, citing the confusion among voters who simultaneously hold favorable views of both socialism and capitalism.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 19, 04:15 AM UTC

A July 2026 analysis from Reason.com examines polling data showing that the term 'free market economy' consistently polls more favorably among American voters than 'capitalism.' An Echelon Insights poll found 53% favorable view of 'free market' versus 49% for 'capitalism,' with only 12% unfavorable for the former compared to 29% for the latter. Similar results appear in Gallup, Napolitan News Service, and Reason-Rupe polls. The author attributes this to widespread political ignorance and the negative connotations of 'capital' and 'capitalists,' noting that 'capitalism' was originally popularized by 19th-century socialists. The piece advises libertarians and free-market advocates to use 'free market' or 'free enterprise' terminology instead of 'capitalism' to improve public reception of their ideas.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 19, 04:15 AM UTC

Architects are reimagining AI data centers to provide tangible benefits to host communities, moving beyond traditional industrial designs. Forma's 'Pink Thermal Baths' concept proposes a bathhouse warmed by server heat. Gensler integrates public parks and uses materials like Corten steel to blend with landscapes. Arup explores vertical designs, noise mitigation, and pairing data centers with tomato farms to reuse waste heat. The push comes as a 2025 Business Insider analysis finds over 1,400 data centers built or approved in the US, and a Gallup poll shows 71% of adults oppose local AI data centers due to noise, water use, and electricity concerns. Architects debate whether design can reduce burdens or merely camouflage them, with some ideas requiring government and developer cooperation for infrastructure like district heating.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 08:11 AM UTC

This article by Andres Tovar discusses the 'efficiency paradox' faced by high-growth companies, where cost-efficient operations rely on unsustainable workloads that lead to burnout, errors, and turnover. The author argues that financial efficiency is not the same as operational health, citing that 72% of U.S. employees experience moderate to high burnout, with heavy workloads as the top cause. To escape this paradox, the article recommends two key investments: adopting technology to automate repetitive tasks and hiring additional staff to free existing team members for higher-value work. The piece emphasizes that long-term success requires balancing growth with employee well-being, rather than prioritizing short-term cost savings at the expense of sustainability.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 11:00 PM UTC

A broad coalition, including MAGA conservatives and Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, is mobilizing against data center construction, driven by environmental and community concerns. New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed an executive order imposing a yearlong moratorium on new data centers, alarming Silicon Valley AI advocates who fear a precedent. The opposition cites data centers' massive water and electricity consumption, light and noise pollution, and health impacts from air pollution, with a Harvard study estimating $53-99 million in annual health damages from a single Virginia facility. A Gallup poll shows 70% of Americans oppose data centers, including a majority of Republicans. Activist group Humans First, backed by America First conservatives, is leading protests. AI lobbyists warn the industry must address these issues quickly to avoid further backlash.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 03:50 PM UTC

Psychotherapist Esther Perel warns that Europe's workforce is suffering from 'social atrophy'—the erosion of everyday human contact—exacerbated by AI adoption, hybrid work, and economic anxiety. Citing Gallup's 2026 report showing Europe's employee engagement at just 12% (global average 20%), Perel argues that remote work, blurred Zoom backgrounds, and AI replacing routine interactions are weakening professional relationships and conflict-resolution skills. She criticizes companies for using AI to justify layoffs and reduce entry-level hiring, which eliminates traditional career paths and social bonding opportunities. Perel urges leaders to prioritize human connection over productivity and warns that AI is absorbing time once spent with colleagues, removing the foundation of small talk needed for difficult conversations. Gen Z employees are identified as the least connected cohort, with lasting pandemic effects unaddressed.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 12:43 PM UTC

Two years after Elon Musk built AI data centers (Colossus and Colossus II) in Memphis at breakneck speed, residents are facing noise and emissions from gas-burning turbines. The backlash has sparked policy proposals, protests, and litigation across the US, with New York enacting a one-year moratorium on AI data centers and New Jersey passing legislation on electricity cost-sharing. A class action lawsuit against SpaceX has been filed by a nearby resident. A Gallup poll shows 70% of Americans oppose local AI data centers. Despite public opposition, SpaceX's record-setting IPO and multi-billion-dollar compute rental deals with Google, Anthropic, and Reflection AI highlight the economic rewards for Musk's companies.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 11:40 AM UTC

New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed an executive order on July 14, 2026, imposing a one-year moratorium on new hyperscale data centers requiring over 50 megawatts of power. The first statewide ban of its kind in the U.S. aims to develop environmental regulations, address energy grid strain, rising utility costs, and resource depletion. Exemptions apply to hospitals and universities. The move reflects growing bipartisan opposition to AI infrastructure, with polls showing 71% of Americans oppose local data centers.

18 reports · 11 sources · Updated Jul 19, 12:31 AM UTC

This opinion piece by LZ Granderson reflects on the life and legacy of Jason Collins, the first openly gay player in the NBA, who recently passed away from brain cancer at age 47. The article highlights Collins' pivotal role in breaking down societal barriers after coming out in 2013, emphasizing his decade-long effort to foster understanding and bridge divides across generations and identities. Granderson connects Collins' story to broader themes of segregation in America, citing former Senator Ben Sasse's views on how social media and demographic bubbles exacerbate division. The author argues that trailblazers like Collins burst these bubbles by existing authentically, contributing to a significant cultural shift where acceptance of same-sex marriage has grown substantially. The piece also touches on the universal nature of mortality, noting how diseases like cancer remind society of shared human fragility regardless of political or social differences. Ultimately, the article celebrates Collins not just as a sports figure, but as a catalyst for social progress who helped move the country forward by encouraging connection over separation.

1 reports · 1 sources

The U.S. Senate has unanimously passed a bipartisan resolution to withhold senators' paychecks during future government shutdowns, effective after the November 3 general election. This measure addresses historical disparities where lawmakers remained paid while federal employees faced financial strain. Concurrently, Democrats in the House Homeland Security Committee urged FEMA to address critical staffing shortages and vacant leadership roles before the Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1. The Government Accountability Office reported nine new Anti-Deficiency Act violations across agencies like the USDA and Labor Department for fiscal 2025. In administrative updates, the General Services Administration will introduce a new special item number for grant management systems to modernize procurement. The Army is transitioning from the Defense Department Mobility Unclassified Capability program to the Army Mobility Program to enhance secure communications. Additionally, recent data indicates a rebound in federal employee retention following previous spikes in job searching, though engagement levels remain lower than other sectors. These developments highlight ongoing efforts to reform federal operations, manage workforce stability, and ensure agency readiness amidst political and logistical challenges.

1 reports · 1 sources

This article from DIE ZEIT addresses the prevalence of toxic work environments characterized by aggressive behavior, selfish colleagues, and oppressive management styles. It highlights a 'hard elbow culture' where individuals dominate meetings, publicly shame others, and engage in power games. The text cites a Gallup long-term study indicating that fewer than 20 percent of employees in Germany are satisfied with their supervisors, underscoring the widespread nature of poor leadership. Examples of negative behaviors include managers acting like dictators, overwhelming staff with stress, and colleagues who sabotage others' achievements or claim sole credit for joint successes. The publication invites readers to share their personal experiences with such hostile environments. Specifically, it asks how individuals cope with anti-social behavior, whether they have adopted similar power tactics to advance their careers, and if interventions like open conversations or coaching have proven effective. The goal is to collect anonymous testimonials to illustrate coping mechanisms and the reality of modern workplace conflicts, offering a platform for employees to discuss strategies for maintaining well-being amidst professional adversity.

1 reports · 1 sources

This analysis argues that the Trump administration and Republican leaders are repeating the political mistake made by Democrats under Joe Biden: denying the economic struggles felt by ordinary Americans. While Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and President Trump insist the economy is thriving, citing strong GDP and stock market records, polling data reveals a starkly different reality. A record 55 percent of Americans report their personal financial situations are worsening, and over 70 percent struggle to afford basic necessities like food and housing. Furthermore, nearly two-fifths of households cannot cover a $400 emergency expense, a figure unchanged since 2022. The article highlights growing anxiety among young people and concerns about job security and healthcare costs. The author contends that by dismissing public sentiment as delusion, the GOP risks similar political ruin to what befell the Democrats, who lost power due to ignoring widespread economic discontent despite favorable macroeconomic indicators.

1 reports · 1 sources

A recent Gallup survey reveals that Americans are significantly more opposed to having AI data centers in their neighborhoods than nuclear power plants. While 71% of U.S. adults oppose local data center construction, only 53% oppose nearby nuclear facilities, marking the first time data center opposition has exceeded historical nuclear opposition levels. The backlash against data centers is driven by immediate, visible impacts such as noise, traffic, increased utility bills, and substantial water consumption. In contrast, nuclear risks like meltdowns are perceived as more abstract due to decades of normalization. Industry experts, including Wannie Park of PADO AI, attribute the resistance to a failure in communication and public education regarding the technology's benefits. With data centers already consuming 4.4% of national electricity and projections showing demand could double by 2028, the strain on local resources has led to moratoriums in numerous jurisdictions. The article highlights the irony that while nuclear power carries severe long-term risks, its low carbon emissions and established presence make it more acceptable to the public than the rapidly expanding, resource-intensive infrastructure required for artificial intelligence.

1 reports · 1 sources

A recent Gallup poll reveals that most Americans strongly oppose the construction of data centers in their communities, viewing them as industrial facilities with significant downsides and negligible local benefits. The opposition stems from concerns over noise pollution, potential increases in residential utility costs, and the perception that these centers support controversial AI applications while receiving substantial tax breaks. Unlike traditional industrial projects that offered job security, data centers create very few long-term employment opportunities after construction, leading to a disparity between community sacrifices and rewards. Additionally, there are fears that proximity to these facilities may decrease residential property values and result in net losses for public revenues due to tax incentives. The article highlights that this resistance is so pronounced that respondents expressed greater opposition to data centers than to nuclear power plants, which are perceived to offer clearer energy benefits. This trend underscores a growing disconnect between tech industry expansion plans and local community interests, challenging the narrative that such developments inherently benefit host regions.

1 reports · 1 sources

A 2026 Gallup survey reveals that 71% of Americans oppose the construction of AI data centers near their homes, a figure significantly higher than the 53% who oppose nearby nuclear plants. The primary reasons for this opposition include concerns over resource consumption, particularly excessive water usage and strain on the power grid, cited by half of the respondents. Additional worries involve potential increases in utility bills and traffic, while fears regarding job displacement and the rapid, unregulated growth of AI also contribute to public resistance. Conversely, supporters highlight economic benefits, with 55% pointing to increased job opportunities and 13% noting higher tax revenues. Political affiliation influences these attitudes, with Democrats showing stronger opposition (56%) compared to Republicans, although a majority of Republicans also express aversion. The findings underscore a significant 'Not In My Backyard' sentiment that poses a challenge to the expansion of necessary AI infrastructure in the United States, highlighting a contradiction between technological ambition and local community acceptance.

1 reports · 1 sources

A growing resistance movement is emerging across the United States against the rapid construction of massive AI data centers, driven by concerns over resource depletion and lack of public oversight. Organizer Astra Taylor highlights how local communities are leveraging this industry chokepoint to challenge the Big Tech agenda, questioning the distribution of land, water, and energy. Recent developments include a statewide moratorium in Maine, which was vetoed by the governor, and legislative efforts by Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to impose a temporary national halt on new constructions. Opposition is widespread, with a Gallup poll indicating that seventy percent of Americans oppose nearby data centers. Specific flashpoints include Utah, where a proposed facility could consume more energy than the entire state, and Virginia, a major data center hub. Critics argue these projects cause significant environmental harm, including increased greenhouse gas emissions, air and noise pollution, and excessive water usage, while providing few local jobs. The movement frames the issue not just as a technological debate, but as a critical struggle for democratic governance over essential resources and community well-being against corporate interests.

1 reports · 1 sources

New data from Gallup reveals a significant shift in public opinion regarding infrastructure development in the United States, showing that most Americans would rather have a nuclear power plant built in their neighborhood than a data center. The poll indicates that 71% of respondents oppose the construction of nearby data centers, particularly those supporting AI, with 48% strongly opposed. In contrast, only 53% oppose local nuclear energy facilities. Just 20% of Americans favor new data center projects, with a mere 7% strongly supporting them. This rising opposition is driven by growing concerns over noise pollution, potential health impacts, environmental damage, and increased local costs. Approximately 70% of those surveyed expressed worry about the environmental impact of these facilities. This marks the first time Gallup has specifically canvassed public opinion on this issue, highlighting a challenging landscape for tech companies expanding their physical infrastructure amidst the AI boom. The findings underscore a notable 'Not in my backyard' sentiment that prioritizes perceived immediate quality-of-life issues over traditional fears associated with nuclear energy.

1 reports · 1 sources

A recent Gallup survey reveals that 71 percent of Americans oppose the construction of AI data centers in their local areas, with nearly half strongly against it. This resistance stems from significant environmental and quality-of-life concerns, including excessive water consumption, strain on power grids, noise pollution, and potential impacts on property values. Specific incidents, such as SpaceX’s xAI facing lawsuits over Clean Air Act violations in Mississippi and power supply uncertainties in Lake Tahoe, highlight these tensions. While opponents cite resource depletion and distrust of AI, supporters primarily emphasize job creation and broader economic benefits. In response to growing public backlash, several jurisdictions are taking legislative action. Monterey Park, California, has banned new data centers within city limits, while New York lawmakers have proposed a three-year moratorium. Additionally, federal legislators have introduced bills for a nationwide pause on construction. Despite tech companies' efforts to promote AI as inevitable, only a small fraction of supporters cite this as a reason for approval. The conflict illustrates a deepening divide between rapid technological infrastructure expansion and community welfare priorities across the United States.

1 reports · 1 sources

A recent Gallup survey reveals that over 70 percent of Americans oppose the construction of AI data centers in their local communities, with only seven percent expressing strong support. The opposition is so pronounced that respondents indicated a preference for living near nuclear power plants, which historically peak at 63 percent opposition. Primary concerns driving this sentiment include the substantial consumption of water and electricity resources, with half of opponents citing resource impact as their top issue. Additionally, a Pew Research study notes that 43 percent of Americans blame data centers for rising power bills. Political breakdowns show highest opposition among Democrats (75 percent), followed by independents (74 percent) and Republicans (63 percent). While critics highlight quality-of-life degradation, pollution, and negative views on AI, supporters primarily argue for job creation opportunities. This tension is evident in policy debates, such as Maine Governor Janet Mills’ veto of a construction moratorium to protect employment prospects. The findings underscore a growing conflict between technological infrastructure expansion and community environmental and economic concerns across the United States.

1 reports · 1 sources

A recent Gallup poll indicates that a significant majority of Americans oppose having data centers located in their communities. For the first time, the polling organization surveyed public opinion on these massive facilities, which are essential for operating large AI models but require substantial space, energy, and water resources. The findings show that seven out of ten respondents are opposed to nearby data centers, with 48 percent strongly opposing them. Concerns cited include noise pollution from cooling systems, emissions from onsite gas turbines, and a lack of local job creation relative to the investment size. This public sentiment has translated into organized political resistance, with industry analysts reporting that coordinated local pushback has led to the cancellation of at least $156 billion in data center infrastructure projects. Currently, over 300,000 people across 37 states are part of opposition groups. Despite this widespread resistance, some developers, such as Kevin O’Leary, continue to pursue large-scale projects, occasionally dismissing protesters with controversial claims. The data suggests that opposition to hyperscale data center development is a distinctly American phenomenon, driven by environmental and community impact concerns.

1 reports · 1 sources