Widespread Concern Over Iran’s Nuclear Program
A new survey from the AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research reveals that concern about Iran’s nuclear ambitions remains high among Americans. Eighty percent of adults say they are at least moderately concerned that Iran’s nuclear program poses a direct threat to the United States.
Nearly half of respondents report being very or extremely concerned. At the same time, 61% view Iran as an enemy nation, underscoring persistent geopolitical anxiety.
Low Trust in Presidential Decision-Making
Despite strong concern about foreign threats, public trust in Donald Trump’s handling of military force overseas remains limited. Fifty-six percent of respondents say they have little or no trust in his judgment regarding international military action.
Similarly, 59% express low trust in his decision-making around the potential use of nuclear weapons. The findings indicate a clear gap between perceived external threats and confidence in executive leadership.
Skepticism on Alliances and Adversaries
The poll also shows skepticism about the president’s management of international relationships. Majorities express little or no trust in his handling of ties with both U.S. allies and adversaries.
While 54% of respondents describe Israel as a close ally, views of diplomatic competence remain polarized. The findings suggest public uncertainty about long-term foreign policy strategy.
Recommended Article: Trump Defends Economy and Tariffs in Marathon Address
Sharp Partisan Divisions
Trust in presidential judgment splits dramatically along partisan lines. Among Democrats, 92% say they have little or no trust in Trump’s nuclear decision-making.
By contrast, only 20% of Republicans report similar skepticism. Independents fall in between, with 65% expressing limited confidence in the president’s handling of nuclear issues.
Military Force and Public Opinion
The survey highlights broader divisions regarding the use of military force abroad. While national security concerns are shared across party lines, trust in leadership remains highly polarized.
Republicans are significantly more likely than Democrats to support Trump’s foreign policy instincts. This divergence reflects ongoing political fragmentation.
Methodology and Margin of Error
The nationwide poll was conducted February 19–23, 2026, using the probability-based AmeriSpeak Panel operated by NORC at the University of Chicago. Interviews were completed online and by phone with 1,133 adults.
The overall margin of sampling error is plus or minus four percentage points. Such methodology provides a statistically reliable snapshot of public sentiment at the time of surveying.
Implications for Foreign Policy Debate
The results illustrate a complex political landscape. Americans remain deeply concerned about Iran’s nuclear capabilities but remain skeptical of executive decision-making authority.
As tensions in the Middle East persist, public opinion may influence congressional oversight and future military authorizations. The data underscores how foreign policy leadership continues to shape domestic political narratives.
