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A women visits a voting center in Pflugerville for the March 3 primary. The latest Texas Lyceum poll found that only 27% of Texans believe their children will have a more prosperous future than their own current economic situation.<\/p>\n
Ricardo B. Brazziell\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Texas has long been regarded as a place of opportunity, with a strong economy and a thriving career market. Here, everything is bigger and anything is possible. But according to a 2026 Texas Lyceum poll<\/a>, only a quarter of Texans believe they are in a long-term career, and\u00a0some are losing faith in democracy.<\/p>\n Texans are questioning the very systems that are designed to support and represent our best interests. And this disconnect should serve as a warning, not just for today but for the future of our state and the generations that come after us.<\/p>\n Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n As president of the Texas Lyceum<\/a>, I have the privilege of hearing directly from residents. Each year, the Lyceum conducts a comprehensive poll to gauge Texans\u2019 perspectives on issues shaping our state. Our purpose is not to advocate for specific positions, but to raise awareness and foster informed dialogue so leaders are better equipped to serve their communities.<\/p>\n This year\u2019s poll reveals a troubling reality: 75% of Texans believe they have a job, not a career. In a state with the eighth-largest economy in the world, this should raise serious concern. Texas is an economic powerhouse, but that success must translate into meaningful, long-term opportunities for its workforce. If Texans see only a paycheck and not a pathway to careers,\u00a0something fundamental is missing.<\/p>\n Equally worrisome, only 27% of Texans believe their children will have a more prosperous future than their own current economic situation.<\/p>\n Addressing that gap starts with education<\/a>. Career pathways are shaped early, through the combined influence of families, educators and public systems. Preparing students not just for employment, but for long-term success \u2014 through skills training, career exposure and real-world learning \u2014 should be a central priority. State and local leaders play a critical role in ensuring those opportunities exist.<\/p>\n Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n SIGN UP FOR THE AUSTIN ANGLE<\/a> and get Statesman commentaries in your inbox<\/p>\n That sense of uncertainty extends beyond the workplace. The poll also found that one in four Texans are unsure whether democracy is the best form of government, pointing to\u00a0a deeper disconnect\u00a0from civic life and a lack of confidence in public institutions. A healthy democracy depends on informed,\u00a0engaged citizens who believe their participation matters.<\/p>\n From my experience as a municipal leader, I have seen firsthand that government is only as strong as the people who engage with it. Civic participation, including voting, attending meetings and running for office, is essential to maintaining responsive and effective governance.<\/p>\n In recent years, various factors have discouraged people from stepping forward. The increasing polarization of politics, the demands of public service and the scrutiny that comes with it have all contributed to a decline in civic involvement.<\/p>\n Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n This trend is especially concerning at the local level. Local offices are often the entry point for future leaders, shaping the pipeline for higher levels of government. When fewer people are willing to run, communities lose diverse perspectives and fresh ideas. Over time, this weakens not only local governance but the broader democratic system.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n