U.S. hits new low in global corruption index

BUDAPEST, Hungary — The U.S. posted its worst result in at least eight years in a global corruption index, as special interests and growing threats to checks and balances made it more difficult to tackle graft.

The U.S. was tied with France for 23rd in the 2019 Corruption Perceptions Index, one place lower than the previous year, according to a report published by Transparency International on Thursday. Denmark and New Zealand tied for first, indicating the lowest levels of corruption.

The rankings were published the same week that the U.S. Senate began its first impeachment trial in 20 years to decide whether President Donald J. Trump should be removed from office for abuse of power. It also coincides with a presidential election campaign where Trump is seeking a second term.

“While President Trump campaigned on a promise of ‘draining the swamp’ and making government work for more than just Washington insiders and political elites, a series of scandals, resignations and allegations of unethical behavior suggest that the ‘pay-to-play’ culture has only become more entrenched,” Transparency International said.

Of particular concern in the U.S. and many other countries is the correlation between money and politics, the watchdog said. Almost two thirds of countries that significantly improved their standings also strengthened campaign finance laws. Meanwhile, many of the low performers have lax regulations when it comes to wealth and power, according to the report.