The answer depends on how far away it is.
PORTLAND, Maine — On the eve of the 2024 election, the questions couldn’t be more timely. Do Mainers trust their government at the local, state, and federal levels? Do they feel engaged in their government? Are they hopeful about the future of Maine and the nation?
Many of the findings are encouraging. For instance, the report concluded that Mainers rank first in the U.S. “in attending public meetings and participating in groups; third in volunteering; fourth in contacting or visiting public officials; sixth in discussing issues with family, friends, or neighbors; and ninth in working with neighbors to improve their neighborhood or community.”
Other findings are troubling. Only 17 percent of Mainers trust the federal government. Thirty-five percent aren’t confident that the votes will be counted accurately in the 2024 presidential election.
Nick Jacobs, an assistant professor of government at Colby College, was not surprised that people trust their local …