Trust in Swedish Politicians Rises Post-2026 Election but Remains Below Historic Highs

New data from SVT's 2026 election survey, Valu, reveals that trust in Swedish politicians has increased significantly among voters, hitting 60% compared to 54% in the 2022 election and 59% in 2018. Despite this improvement, confidence remains notably under the historic peak of 70% in 2010. The survey collected responses from over 13,000 voters at 93 polling stations and additional early voting locations, providing a broad snapshot of current voter attitudes.

The data shows marked differences across party lines. Trust is highest among voters supporting the Tidöpartierna coalition, particularly those aligned with Moderaterna and Liberalerna, where 72% express strong confidence in politicians. Conversely, trust is at its lowest among Vänsterpartiet voters, with only 44% showing political trust. This divide reflects broader political polarization, as the increase in confidence is primarily due to stable or rising trust among coalition supporters, while opposition voters show less trust.

The role of party leaders in influencing voter decisions also features prominently in the survey. Among Sverigedemokraterna voters, 82% identify their party leader Jimmie Åkesson as a decisive factor in their choice. Kristdemokraterna followers also place strong emphasis on leadership, with 78% citing Ebba Busch's influence. In stark contrast, only 39% of Vänsterpartiet voters and 38% of Miljöpartiet voters report their leaders as significantly impacting their vote, illustrating variations in leadership sway across the political spectrum.

Historically, trust levels in politicians fluctuated between 45% and 54% from 1991 to 2006 before peaking at 70% in 2010. The current rise to 60% indicates a rebound but highlights continuing challenges in building widespread confidence. Analysts attribute the increase partly to stable trust among center-right voters while noting the ongoing skepticism among opposition ranks.

Overall, the 2026 survey paints a complex picture of political trust in Sweden, showing recovery after previous declines but emphasizing the persistent gaps between different voter groups and the considerable role that party leaders play in shaping voter loyalty.