Public’s view of drug companies sinks to record low in Gallup poll

The public’s view of the pharmaceutical industry sank to a record low in a new Gallup poll.

The poll finds that 27 percent of the public has a positive view of the industry, compared to 58 percent with a negative view, for a net rating of negative 31 points.

The number is the lowest of any entities Gallup polled, including the federal government, at minus 27 points, the advertising industry at minus 1, the legal field at plus five, and airlines at plus 19.The public’s favorability toward the pharmaceutical industry is at its lowest point since Gallup began polling the question in 2001. Just four years ago, the industry had a net positive rating of 4 points, but that has plummeted in the years since then.

The hit to the industry’s image comes as both parties are increasingly lashing out at drug companies for their prices.

Both Democrats and President Trump have made lowering drug prices a top priority and have attacked drug companies for their prices.

It is unclear whether Congress can actually agree on any action this year, given that many congressional Republicans remain resistant to taking aggressive action and Democrats are pushing for more.

The pharmaceutical industry remains a formidable force in lobbying and campaign contributions.