National Foreign Policy Study
Where Americans Stand on the U.S. Global Role
Fielded May 7–9, 2025 | 1,462 likely voters | MoE ±3.27%
National Foreign Policy Study
Where Americans Stand on the U.S. Global Role
Fielded May 7–9, 2025 | 1,462 likely voters | MoE ±3.27%
Foreign Policy Outlook
Americans are divided and cautious when it comes to U.S. involvement abroad. Party affiliation and ideology heavily influence opinions in regard to aid, military action, and the overall role of the U.S. on the world stage, while the general hesitancy about conflict resolution and efforts used abroad exists across the board.
Partisan Divide on Global Threats
There is a striking partisan gap when considering the top foreign/external threat to the U.S.
At 26%, Russia is considered the top overall threat which includes a 53% majority of Democrats, yet only 4% of Republicans.
Republicans instead say drug cartels/illegal immigration (33%) and China (32%) are the largest foreign threats to U.S. security and stability, with Independents equally split between Russia and China (24%, respectively). Not only does this data show different priorities, but it outlines fundamentally opposite threat perceptions across the political spectrum.
Immigration and Deportation
When it comes to tackling the threat of illegal immigration, voters are widely supportive of President Trump’s executive actions, as 58% say they support canceling federally-funded programs and resources for illegal immigrants, including a majority of Independents (59%). Nearly three-fourths (72%) also support Trump’s order requiring proof of citizenship when registering to vote, a sentiment that’s even popular with a plurality of Democrats and a majority of college-educated voters.
When it comes to deportation, over eight in ten support the deportation of illegals who have committed violent crimes. However, Americans are generally less supportive of a broader mass deportation that would require all illegals to re-enter legally. Even still, a 56% majority are inclined to support such actions.
Ukraine Aid Splits Along Party Lines
Support for additional Ukraine aid is deeply partisan, strongest among Democrats and Progressives, while Republicans and self-identified “MAGA” conservatives generally fall into one of three buckets: pause aid until there are peace talks, continue current policy but avoid escalation, or stay out of the conflict altogether. Independents, although divided, lean slightly toward doing more to support Ukraine (33%).
Middle Eastern Conflicts
When it comes to the conflict between Israel and Hamas, the country is fairly split between support for a ceasefire, fully backing Israeli forces, and U.S. support for a Palestinian state. Republicans overwhelmingly back complete military and financial support for Israel.
Democrats, however – in addition to younger voters and self-described Progressives – are more likely to support a Palestinian state, while Independents prioritize enacting an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.