Polarization in America: Survey of Local Government

Polarization in America: Survey of Local Government is the first in a three-part series of surveys aimed at understanding the impact of polarization, identifying solutions, and strengthening communities. The report, conducted by the nonprofit research organization CivicPulse and commissioned by Carnegie Corporation of New York, explores how political polarization impacts governing at the local level using a mixed-methods approach of close-ended survey questions, open-ended survey questions, and follow-up interviews of local government officials. Between August and September 2024, CivicPulse surveyed more than 1,400 volunteer respondents — elected leaders, managers, and key department heads working in municipalities, townships, and counties from across the United States.