Americans Believe in Extraterrestrial Life and Government Secrets on UFOs

Most Americans hold the belief that intelligent life exists on other planets. A significant portion, one in five, suggests that these extraterrestrials may have already contacted us. While some remain skeptical, expecting future contact, there is more intrigue than fear about the prospect of meeting alien visitors.

Recent government disclosures about UFO files have bolstered the belief in alien visits. Notably, those who have viewed these videos are more convinced. The sentiment that the government knows more than it reveals is strong, with eight in ten Americans sharing this view.

Beliefs in extraterrestrial life have risen since 2010. More individuals across gender, age, and educational backgrounds now share this belief. In possible encounters with aliens, curiosity prevails over fear, though anxiety also plays a role.

Approximately 17% of Americans claim to have seen unidentified flying objects (UFOs), a figure aligned with recent Gallup polls, but above past reports from the 1970s. Men are more likely than women to report such sightings. Among these, many strongly believe in extraterrestrial life and express excitement and nervousness at the thought of meeting aliens.

Opinions are divided on the origins of UFO reports. Some attribute them to alien spacecraft, while others see them as human or natural phenomena. Even those opposed to the idea of intelligent life often consider earthly explanations more likely. Overall, awareness about the government’s released UFO files and UAP videos is widespread. Four in ten Americans watched these videos, with many concluding that extraterrestrial visits are plausible.

The survey reveals bipartisan skepticism about the government’s transparency regarding UFOs. Majorities of Democrats, Republicans, and independents suspect the government conceals more than it shares.

The survey, conducted between June 2-4, 2026, involved 2,023 adults, ensuring national representation based on demographics, as aligned with U.S Census data. The margin of error stands at ±2.8 points. Past CBS News polls, conducted by phone, contribute historical context.