For the 23rd consecutive year, nurses have topped Gallup’s annual Most Honest and Ethical Professions Poll, continuing their longstanding position as the most trusted profession in America. According to the poll, 76% of Americans—three out of four—consider nurses to be highly honest and ethical.
The Gallup Poll, which surveyed 23 occupations, revealed that nurses have maintained their trustworthiness among the public year after year. This is a significant testament to the unwavering commitment of healthcare professionals, especially in the aftermath of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing healthcare pressures.
Following nurses in the rankings, grade-school teachers earned a strong second place, with 61% of respondents rating them as highly ethical and honest. This highlights the continued respect for educators who shape the minds of the next generation.
Other professions that earned high marks in the poll include military officers, pharmacists, and medical doctors, all of whom also garnered trust from a majority of Americans.
On the other end of the spectrum, the least trusted professions were revealed to be lobbyists, members of Congress, and TV reporters. In fact, more than half of U.S. adults rated these professions’ ethics as low or very low, reflecting a significant distrust in these fields.
The Gallup Poll, conducted between December 2 and 18, 2024, once again showcases the enduring respect for those who dedicate their careers to public service and health, especially in times of crisis. Nurses, in particular, continue to stand as a symbol of compassion and professionalism in a world where trust is increasingly rare.
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