As of July 2024, several significant issues are dominating the public discourse in the United States

These issues span economic concerns, political challenges, social matters, and policy debates.

1. Inflation and Economic Concerns: Inflation remains a top concern, particularly among Republicans and Republican-leaning independents. Approximately 77% of this group view inflation as a very big problem. This economic issue affects daily life, increasing the cost of living and impacting everything from groceries to housing. Concerns about the federal budget deficit are also prominent, with 56% of Americans considering it a major problem. This worry extends to predictions that the deficit will continue to grow in the coming years​ (Pew Research Center)​​ (Pew Research Center)​.
2. Healthcare Affordability: The affordability of healthcare is a major issue for many Americans. About 73% of Democrats and Democratic leaners highlight this as a critical problem. Rising medical costs and issues with access to care have made this a persistent challenge. The debate over how to make healthcare more affordable and accessible continues to be a focal point in political discussions​ (Pew Research Center)​.
3. Partisan Cooperation: The ability of Democrats and Republicans to work together is seen as a significant issue, with 62% of Americans viewing it as a very big problem. The intense polarization in U.S. politics hampers legislative progress and often leads to gridlock, frustrating many citizens who desire more effective governance​ (Pew Research Center)​.
4. Gun Violence: Gun violence is another pressing concern, especially among Democrats. About 81% of Democrats consider it a very big problem, compared to 27% of Republicans. High-profile mass shootings and everyday gun violence in communities have kept this issue in the spotlight. There are ongoing debates about gun control measures and the balance between Second Amendment rights and public safety​ (Pew Research Center)​.
5. Illegal Immigration: Illegal immigration remains a contentious issue, with 51% of Americans viewing it as a very big problem. This concern is significantly higher among Republicans (78%) compared to Democrats (27%). The debate encompasses border security, the treatment of migrants, and the economic and social impacts of immigration policies​ (Pew Research Center)​​ (Pew Research Center)​.
6. Climate Change: Climate change continues to be a divisive issue, with 36% of Americans considering it a very big problem. There is a stark partisan divide: 64% of Democrats view it as a major issue, while only 14% of Republicans agree. This divide reflects broader disagreements over environmental policies and the urgency of addressing climate change​ (Pew Research Center)​.
7. Racism: Concerns about racism have declined since 2021. Currently, 29% of Americans see racism as a very big problem, down from 45%. This drop is more pronounced among Democrats, with 42% now viewing it as a major issue, compared to 67% in 2021. The shift in focus may be due to changing social dynamics and the prioritization of other pressing issues​ (Pew Research Center)​.

These issues reflect the complex and often polarized landscape of American public opinion. The priorities vary significantly between different political groups, highlighting the challenges in addressing these problems in a way that satisfies the diverse American populace. As the country approaches the 2024 presidential election, these issues will likely continue to shape the political debate and influence voter behavior.