Majority of Americans oppose Trump’s Iran strikes, per new polling

Politico

by By Jacob Wendler

March 2, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Americans broadly disapprove of President Donald Trump’s decision to authorize military strikes in Iran following the killing of a top Iranian general, according to multiple polls conducted after the attacks. A text poll by SSRS for CNN found nearly 60% of Americans oppose the military action, while another SSRS survey for The Washington Post showed 52% disapproving and 39% supporting the strikes. This lack of public support has raised concerns among White House allies, who worry it could undermine Trump’s political base ahead of the 2018 midterm elections. The polls reveal significant partisan divides in attitudes toward the strikes. While 55% of Republicans approved of the military action, a substantial portion—42%—indicated they would be less supportive if American casualties resulted. Democrats, on the other hand, strongly oppose the strikes, with many citing concerns about long-term conflict and its potential impact on oil prices. This aligns with earlier polling in January, when 47% of Americans opposed the possibility of military action in Iran. Public sentiment appears heavily influenced by economic factors and fears of prolonged conflict. A Reuters/Ipsos poll found that more than a third of Republicans would be less likely to support continued attacks if oil or gas prices rise due to the conflict. Similarly, 38% of registered voters surveyed by Morning Consult said they would favor a diplomatic solution if gas prices increase significantly. This economic uncertainty comes as oil prices have already surged over 10% following Tehran’s retaliatory attacks on oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. The polls also highlight differing public perceptions of Trump’s motivations for the strikes. While the administration claims the goal was to disrupt Iran’s conventional and nuclear weapons programs, many Americans remain skeptical. Democrats are particularly vocal in their criticism, with some lawmakers calling for congressional oversight of U.S. military actions. This growing opposition has led to heightened scrutiny of Trump’s Iran policy, both domestically and internationally. The political implications of these poll results could be significant. With the 2018 midterm elections approaching, Trump’s handling of the Iran crisis may further divide his base and embolden Democratic efforts to challenge his foreign policy decisions. The polls underscore how public sentiment, driven by concerns about economic stability and military escalation, could shape the political landscape in the coming months.

Verticals

politicsnews

Originally published on Politico on 3/2/2026