A majority of Americans want the new Congress, in which the Democrats hold the most seats, to act to end the war in Iran and revoke the tariffs that President Donald Trump has imposed on many imported goods. That is the finding of a Reuters/Ipsos poll. It also shows that even among Republicans, a narrow majority wants Congress to legislate an end to the war.
Iran war and tariffs
The four-day poll, which ended on Monday, found that:
- 71% of Americans want Congress to adopt legislation to end the war in Iran, including 93% of Democrats and 51% of Republicans
- 62% said they would support an effort to revoke the tariffs imposed by the Trump administration
The war in Iran has led to a sharp rise in energy prices, which has added to inflation that had already risen because of Mr Trump’s tariffs.
Mr Trump has said the war was unavoidable to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. He says the tariffs protect American industry from cheap imports.
Cost of living tops the agenda
Nine in ten respondents said tackling the high cost of living should be the new Congress’s first priority in its first 100 days after it is sworn in.
Large majorities of voters from both parties also said it was important for Mr Trump to try to work with the Democrats, and for Democratic leaders in Congress to work with the president.
Concern over impeachment
Many Americans appear concerned that the Democrats will use their new power to begin legal proceedings against Mr Trump. 42% of respondents said it would be “bad for the country” if Congress began impeachment proceedings against him, while 33% said it would be good.
Neither party is popular
Mr Trump’s approval rating is 32%, close to the lowest of his political career. The Democrats are not especially popular either:
- Democrats: 45% positive, 51% negative
- Republicans: 35% positive, 60% negative
Source: ANA-MPA
