In a recent report, anti-corruption organization Transparency International indicated that corruption is steadily worsening across democracies globally, marking a concerning trend in governance and accountability. The report specifically highlighted that the United States has reached its worst-ever score in the 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index, reflecting a significant decline in public trust regarding government integrity. This situation is alarming not just for America but for democratic institutions worldwide, which are supposed to be bastions of honesty and accountability.

The document also reveals that the average global corruption score has deteriorated to its lowest point in over ten years, suggesting a broader systemic failure that transcends national borders. The report implicates political leaders and their policies, specifically citing US President Donald Trump’s approach to governance, which many argue has compromised institutional integrity. His administration's perceived hostility towards independent agencies and its pressure on critical institutions raise questions about the state of democracy and the rule of law, prompting fears about the erosion of ethical standards globally.

Further concerns were raised regarding the weakening of the enforcement of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, which Transparency International interprets as a move towards tolerance for corrupt business practices within the US. The investigation into Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell by Trump’s Department of Justice illustrates the political climate's volatility, where political pressure could undermine various institutions' autonomy. Overall, the report serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges that corruption poses to democracy, governance, and international relations, prompting calls for renewed commitment to anti-corruption measures worldwide.