In this article, we will take a look at the 16 most corrupt cities in the US.
Corruption is a global issue, and the United States is no exception, with varying degrees of corruption across its states. Understanding the extent of corruption in each state is essential for effective intervention and reform. In an ideal world, corruption would be nonexistent, and governments at all levels would prioritize the well-being of their citizens. However, the reality is that corruption is pervasive worldwide, including within the United States.
Corruption is the abuse of political power by government officials for personal gain, often through bribery or other unethical means. In the United States, significant peaks in corruption occurred during the Jacksonian era and the Gilded Age. However, levels of corruption declined following the reforms implemented during the Progressive Era. In 2022, the United States scored 69 out of 100 on the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI), which measures perceived levels of public sector corruption. This score places the US 24th out of 180 countries, indicating relatively low levels of corruption compared to many other nations.
Corruption in the United States
Despite the US ranking 25th on the Corruption Perception Index (CPI), suggesting it is among the least corrupt nations, corruption and scandals still occur. Certain states in the U.S. exhibit higher levels of corruption than others, highlighting the need for ongoing vigilance and reform. Best Life’s comprehensive analysis assessed corruption levels across states using several factors: public corruption convictions per 10,000 residents, reported violations by medical providers, anti-corruption measures for public officials (measured by the S.W.A.M.P. Index), and the State Integrity Score. These metrics were carefully weighted to calculate a Corruption Index Score, with 100 indicating the highest level of corruption and 0 the lowest.
From 1976 to 2010, New York had the highest number of public officials convicted on federal corruption charges, with 2,522 convictions. Other states with high numbers of convictions included California, Illinois, Florida, and Pennsylvania. However, these states also have large populations, which affects the raw numbers. When adjusting for population size, Louisiana emerges as the most corrupt state, followed closely by Mississippi. New York drops to 11th place, and California falls to 34th. Conversely, Washington and Oregon are among the least corrupt states.
The Impact of Politics on Corruption
Politics is an effective way of ensuring power and resources are shared equally among all individuals from different backgrounds within a specified jurisdiction. However, people have used political activities and offices to advance their gains and neglect the need to be accountable and responsible to the public. The emergence of political elites has created room for corruption to flourish in public and private offices because people no longer respect the need to develop national programs that will benefit citizens. They have diverted the resources of the public to achieve their gains without considering the impacts of their actions on other citizens. Politics has allowed corrupt officers to win elections and take powerful positions in government. Therefore, citizens continue to suffer because their interests are not addressed by those they expect would alleviate their problems.
Widespread poverty and illiteracy have significantly contributed to endemic corruption in modern societies. Efforts to educate people, particularly in rural areas, aim to increase awareness of their rights and freedoms to combat corruption. However, these initiatives often fall short, as poverty drives individuals to seek quick and easy solutions to meet their basic needs. Desperation caused by poverty leads people to engage in corrupt practices to ensure they have food on their tables. As a result, corruption flourishes because many people are unaware of their rights, and those who are aware lack the resources to exercise them.
The Aftermath of Corruption: Consequences and Challenges
Corruption severely hinders the development of effective political systems in a country. This vice fosters patronage, posing a serious threat to democratic processes. Nations plagued by corruption often face civil disobedience and political instability, which impede development projects. The introduction of multi-party democratic systems is frequently obstructed by corruption, undermining the legitimacy of political parties and candidates. Consequently, civil disobedience and a lack of trust in political institutions drive citizens to protest and demand the removal of corrupt leaders from power.
Corruption undermines unity and cooperation in society by fostering a sense of inequality and entitlement among certain individuals. The unequal distribution of national resources and restricted access to public services lead to widespread frustration and apathy among citizens, weakening the social fabric that binds communities together. This exacerbates social inequality and creates pronounced class differences, violating the dignity and rights of individuals. Unchecked corruption further widens the gap between the rich and the poor, resulting in a weakened civil society and diminished social cohesion.
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See also: 20 Most Corrupt Countries in Asia and 25 Most Racist Cities in America Ranked By Hate Crimes Per Capita.
Our Methodology
In this article, we draw insights from the most recent anti-corruption report published by the University of Illinois Chicago. Our analysis spans data gathered over five decades, from 1971 to 2021, focusing on the recorded number of convictions across various cities. You can also explore our article titled 30 Most Corrupt Countries in the World Heading into 2024 for further insights into the nations with the highest likelihood of corruption.
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16 Most Corrupt Cities in the US
16. Sacramento, California
Number of Convictions From 1976 to 2021: 674
With a total of 674 corruption convictions from 1976 to 2021, Sacramento, California ranks 16th in our list of the 16 most corrupt cities in the US. Sacramento, the capital city of California, is a bustling metropolis located in the heart of the state’s Central Valley. Renowned for its rich history, cultural diversity, and thriving economy, Sacramento offers a vibrant atmosphere with something for everyone. (See also: Top 20 Most Expensive Cities To Live In California)
15. Fresno, California
Number of Convictions From 1976 to 2021: 674
Fresno, California landed in the 15th spot on our list of the 16 most corrupt cities in the US, with a total of 674 convictions from 1976 until 2021. Founded in 1872 by the Central Pacific Railroad, Fresno quickly evolved into an agricultural hub due to the fertile soil of the San Joaquin Valley and the region’s favorable climate. While situated in the heart of California’s most productive agricultural area, Fresno is also a sophisticated city boasting beautiful gardens and parks, a vibrant creative community, and a unique underground attraction unlike any other. As the largest city in the Central Valley, Fresno offers a blend of agricultural prowess and urban sophistication.