Title: Majority of Democrats Criticize Israel’s Response to Hamas Attack, Poll Shows
In a recent NPR/PBS NewsHour/Marist poll, results indicate that a majority of Democrats believe that Israel’s response to the recent Hamas attack has been excessive. The poll also reveals that people of color and younger respondents are more inclined to consider Israel’s actions as crossing the line and express sympathy for the Palestinians.
The survey highlighted the divisions among Americans regarding funding both the Israel and Ukraine wars or neither, as well as whether the United States should continue to play a leadership role in the world. Furthermore, the new House Speaker, Mike Johnson, though relatively unknown, is expected to compromise with Democrats according to the respondents, although Republicans are divided on this issue.
One significant finding from the poll is that using the threat of a government shutdown as leverage during budget negotiations is viewed as inappropriate by a majority of respondents, with Republicans more likely to support this tactic.
Regarding perceptions of Israel’s military actions, the survey showed that 38% of Americans believe that the response has been excessive, while an equal number think it has been appropriately proportionate. Interestingly, a majority of Democrats now find Israel’s response to be excessive, marking a contrast to Republicans who largely believe it has been just right. Moreover, younger Americans and non-whites are more prone to supporting the notion that Israel has gone too far.
Despite the divisions over Israel’s actions, the poll suggests that Americans, as a whole, have greater sympathy for Israel in the conflict. However, within the Democratic party, there is an evident split on this issue.
Respondents expressed concern that the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas might spur hate crimes within the United States. Additionally, the survey found that a significant portion of Americans oppose funding both Israel and Ukraine’s wars, favoring the option of funding neither conflict. This viewpoint is more prevalent among certain age groups and racial backgrounds.
The poll also shed light on differing perspectives regarding America’s role in the world. Democrats tend to support the United States maintaining its leadership role, while Republicans are more inclined to prioritize domestic issues.
President Biden received criticism for his handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict, and his overall job approval ratings were reported to be low. The respondents also expressed a lack of confidence in the political system, with many seeing Congress as the underlying problem.
The importance of compromise emerged as a prevalent sentiment among respondents, who emphasized that threats of a government shutdown are unacceptable. In the event of a shutdown, Republicans would be more likely to receive blame, according to the poll.
Lastly, the survey indicated that both Democrats and Republicans are held responsible for the national debt, with a significant portion of respondents blaming both parties.
As opinions diverge on various aspects of domestic and international policy, it is evident that these issues continue to shape the socio-political landscape in the United States.
