A new study has found that Americans support Freedom of Information even though few have ever used it
New research from the Joseph L. Brechner Freedom of Information Project and the Center for Public Interest Communications at the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications (UFCJC) examines public attitudes, institutional trust and what happens when Freedom of Information (FOI) restrictions become personal.
A national representative survey of 1,000 U.S. adults offered insight into their beliefs, attitudes and experiences with FOI. The results were released at Sunshine Fest 2026 in Washington, D.C. on March 16.
The key findings indicate strong support and limited engagement with FOI, shared values across political lines, that nonprofits are the most trusted actors and what happens when FOI restrictions become personal.
These are pre-publication findings from a year-long message design and testing initiative. A peer-reviewed version is in development. Subsequent phases of the study will include a message-testing experiment and a practical strategy guide for advocates, journalists and policy makers.
Category: Brechner Center, Center for Public Interest Communications, College News
Tagged: Brechner Freedom of Information Project Center for Public Interest Communications FOI Freedom of Information Sunshine Fest 2026
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