MAGA-wing of GOP leads growing attitudes against isolationism: REPORT
According to a recent survey conducted by the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Institute, nearly two-thirds of Americans support increased engagement in international affairs. This marks a significant shift from previous years, with 64% of Americans now favoring the United States taking a leadership role in global issues. This trend is evident across both political parties, including the America-first MAGA wing of the Republican Party, which leads the way with 73% support for greater international involvement.
The survey, conducted by polling firms Beacon Research and Shaw & Company Research, also found that 69% of Republicans and 65% of Democrats support the idea of increased engagement in international affairs. This growing support for international involvement comes at a time when the Trump administration is facing challenges from countries like China, Russia, and Iran, with 73% of registered voters viewing Iran as a real security threat to the U.S.
The survey was released shortly after the Trump administration ordered a surprise strike on Iranian nuclear sites, aimed at crippling Iran’s nuclear weapons infrastructure. Despite previous reports suggesting that the administration was open to allowing Iran to continue its uranium enrichment program, President Trump has taken a hardline stance on the issue, repeatedly stating that he will not allow the country to develop nuclear weapons.
In addition to attitudes towards U.S. leadership in global affairs, the survey also covered other foreign policy-related questions, including support for Israel conducting targeted airstrikes against Iran’s nuclear facilities if diplomatic efforts fail. While 45% of respondents supported Israeli airstrikes, there was a noticeable difference in opinion based on partisan affiliation, with 60% of Republicans in favor compared to 35% of Independents and 32% of Democrats.
The survey also delved into the topic of territorial expansion, with President Trump expressing interest in acquiring strategic assets like Greenland and the Panama Canal. The survey found that 55% of Americans supported pursuing acquisition of the Panama Canal, while 47% supported acquiring Greenland. However, there was a clear divide between Republicans and Democrats on this issue, with most Democrats opposed and a majority of Republicans in favor of territorial expansion.
Overall, the survey highlights a shift in attitudes towards international engagement among Americans, with a majority supporting the United States taking a leadership role in global affairs. This sentiment is reflected across party lines, indicating a growing consensus on the importance of a strong and active U.S. presence on the international stage.
