The Myth of 85%: Rethinking Private Ownership Claims in Critical Infrastructure

ABSTRACT This study evaluates the commonly cited claim that 85% of U.S. critical infrastructure is privately owned, exploring its accuracy and implications for policy. Through sector‐specific analysis and a criticality lens, the findings demonstrate that ownership patterns vary widely, with foundational sectors like water, energy, and emergency services exhibiting substantial public or mixed ownership of their most critical assets. The study identifies the “85%” statistic as a mythical number, unreflective of sectoral diversity and criticality variations. By revealing the complexity of ownership structures, including public–private partnerships and regulated utilities, this study challenges oversimplified narratives and emphasizes the need for evidence‐based policies that align resources and regulations with genuine ownership dynamics to enhance infrastructure resilience and security.