I would not think the Americans have more confidence in their politicians because of their experience with their politicians. Their politicians are very isolated from their public, as you probably know, because of the vast populations. You're lucky if you ever meet your senator or House representative. It's a very different type of issue.
My understanding—and I'm not an expert in law or an expert in foreign things--is that the Scandinavian countries were the initiators of the whole concept. They're further ahead; their public is much more confident in their government.