Interestingly, this gap tends to flip depending on which party controls the White House. Back in 2013, when Obama was president, 42% of Democrats believed the founders would be pleased, while only 12% of Republicans felt the same way. Whoever’s party holds power seems to shape how optimistic people feel about the country’s direction. Both the 2013 and current numbers, regardless of party, are notably gloomier than they were in 2003 and the years before it.
