Polling released this week by Quinnipiac University finds that an overwhelming majority of Americans in both parties believe supporting Israel is in the nation’s best interest.
Why It Matters: As the battle for who will challenge President Biden for the White House ensues, the terrorist attacks upon Israeli civilians by Hamas and Israel’s retaliation have brought foreign policy to the forefront of the presidential campaign conversation. On this issue, the attitudes among each party’s base and the general voting population are very clear.
By The Numbers:
Varying GOP Response: In the days following the attacks by Hamas, Republican presidential hopefuls responded in very different ways. Former President Trump mis stepped right out of the gate by criticizing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and praising Hezbollah as being “very smart.” Florida Governor Ron DeSantis came out with full-throated support of Israel, launching a series of flights to deliver supplies to Israel and return American citizens home, while stating he would not permit refugees from Gaza to seek asylum in the United States over concerns that there is no way to distinguish bad actors from true refugees – a sentiment echoed by Egypt and Jordan, both of which border the region.
The Bottom Line: Americans, and especially Republicans, are incredibly supportive of the American partnership with Israel in its darkest hour. The strength of public opinion means that presidential hopefuls stand to gain or lose a lot depending on how they navigate the issue. In a broader sense, the GOP has much to gain among independents by taking decisive action and demonstrating leadership when it comes to American foreign policy on Israel. Drawing a contrast between conservative leadership in times of global crises, many of which will persist beyond Nov. 2024, is critical for Republicans hoping to win back the White House and Senate while holding the House of Representatives.
