A clear majority of American adults believe President Donald Trump has crossed a line with his use of military force overseas, according to a significant new national survey. The findings present a stark contrast to the President's assertive foreign policy agenda, which has recently included the capture of Venezuela's leader and renewed interest in acquiring Greenland.
Public Sentiment Clashes with 'America First' Agenda
The poll, conducted by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research between January 8 and 11, 2026, found that 56 percent of respondents felt Trump has "gone too far" with international military interventions. This widespread disapproval extends to his handling of foreign policy in general and his approach to Venezuela following the capture of President Nicolás Maduro.
This public sentiment largely contradicts the President's recent actions, which have also encompassed proposals for the U.S. to purchase Greenland and warnings of support for protesters in Iran. The survey indicates that while many Americans see some benefits from the Venezuelan intervention, they are sceptical about its value for U.S. security and economic interests.
A Deep Partisan Divide on Global Role
The poll reveals a dramatic split along party lines. The belief that Trump has overstepped is driven overwhelmingly by Democrats and independents. Approximately 9 in 10 Democrats and 6 in 10 independents say the President has "gone too far."
In contrast, most Republicans back the President's current stance. Seventy-one percent of Republicans say Trump’s actions have been "about right," with only about one in ten wanting him to go further. This support comes despite the interventions seeming at odds with the "America First" platform.
Furthermore, the desire for a less active global role is growing. Nearly half of all Americans want the U.S. to take a "less active" part in world affairs, with only about 20 percent advocating for more involvement. This marks a sharp shift, with at least half of Democrats and independents now wanting the U.S. to do less internationally.
Mixed Views on Venezuela Intervention
Americans are divided on the merits and consequences of the military action in Venezuela. About half believe the intervention will be "mostly a good thing" for halting the flow of illegal drugs into the United States. Close to 44 percent think U.S. actions will do more to benefit than harm the Venezuelan people after more than a decade under Maduro.
However, views are split on whether the move will benefit U.S. national security or the economy, with many believing it will have no impact or be detrimental. Republicans are more likely to see upsides, with about 8 in 10 saying it will be good for stopping drug trafficking, compared to fewer who believe it will help the economy.
Overall, 57 percent of Americans disapprove of how Trump is handling the situation in Venezuela, slightly lower than the 61 percent who disapprove of his broader foreign policy approach.
