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Only 22% Trust Government: Calls for Program Reforms

2/21/2026

26 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Erik Clarke, a Denver-based auditor, says accountability in government programs is essential to restore public trust.
He notes that 22% of Americans trusted the federal government in May 2024, a decline since 1964.
He cites significant losses in child nutrition programs during the pandemic and calls for reforming or eliminating underperforming programs to regain public confidence.

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Story summary

Erik Clarke, a Denver-based auditor, says accountability in government programs is essential to restore public trust.
He notes that 22% of Americans trusted the federal government in May 2024, a decline since 1964.
He cites significant losses in child nutrition programs during the pandemic and calls for reforming or eliminating underperforming programs to regain public confidence.