Americans divided on U.S. role after Venezuela operation

Polls show most Americans want the government to focus on domestic issues in 2026 and are split over recent U.S. military action in Venezuela, with Republicans more likely to approve and Democrats largely opposed.

An Associated Press analysis of recent polls finds many Americans prefer the government concentrate on domestic issues as debate continues over U.S. actions in Venezuela. Recent AP-NORC polling showed fewer people naming foreign policy as a top priority for 2026 than in prior years. The capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his subsequent not-guilty plea in New York followed U.S. strikes the administration said targeted drug shipments. Polling taken in the immediate aftermath indicates many people are still forming opinions about U.S. involvement. Key findings: - About one-quarter of U.S. adults listed foreign policy among their top priorities for 2026 in an AP-NORC open-ended question, down from roughly one-third in the prior two years; almost no respondents specifically named Venezuela. - Americans overall prioritized domestic concerns such as health care, economic worries and the cost of living. - A Washington Post-SSRS text-message poll found roughly 4 in 10 approved sending U.S. forces to capture Maduro, about the same share opposed, and about 2 in 10 were unsure; Republicans broadly approved while Democrats were largely opposed. - Nearly half of Americans (about 45%) opposed the U.S. taking control of Venezuela and choosing a new government, and about nine in 10 said Venezuelans should decide their country’s future leadership. - Other polls cited include a December Quinnipiac survey in which about 6 in 10 registered voters opposed U.S. military action in Venezuela, and AP polling showing limited Republican appetite for a more active U.S. role on global issues. Summary: Public opinion is currently more focused on domestic priorities than foreign policy, which could shape political calculations as the administration clarifies its next steps on Venezuela. Polling shows a divided public on the recent military operation and limited support for the U.S. taking control of Venezuela. Undetermined at this time.