The coronavirus pandemic has caused tens of millions of infections, overwhelmed healthcare systems, and disrupted communities, societies and economies. It has exacerbated and solidified some inequalities while exposing areas of strength, resilience and creativity. These changes will play out differently in different places and over time.
During the lockdown, some people were able to spend more quality time with friends and family, work on projects at home or in their community, and take part in hobbies they hadn’t had the opportunity to pursue before the lockdown began. But many have seen a loss of flexibility and freedom as their daily routines have been shaken up. And while some of these effects are likely to fade quickly as the lockdown ends, others will persist and may impact individuals for years to come.
As the outbreak continues, nearly identical shares of Republicans and Democrats say they’re still not confident their state’s government did a good job responding to the pandemic. Most Americans, however, continue to give high marks to local hospitals and public health officials like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They also give their local schools high marks. But only about half of the public gives their state elected officials, Joe Biden or Donald Trump a high mark for their performance.