Civic Knowledge Shifts Shutdown Blame

Americans who correctly identify that Republicans control both the House and Senate blame Republicans and Trump for the shutdown by a 49%–34% margin. Among people who are wrong or unsure about which party controls Congress, blame is split nearly evenly (22% vs. 21%). Knowledge of who holds power appears to determine who gets held accountable. — It shows how basic political knowledge can change accountability attributions, implying misinformation or uncertainty dilutes democratic responsibility signals during crises.