Polarization on trade, security, and immigration hobbles the US and its major parties, especially Republicans
The United States is polarized and so are members of its major political parties, especially on foreign policy. Results of a Pew Research Study released on April 5 suggest that isolationist tendencies are tempered by recognition for the practical need for international engagement. “Wariness of international engagement coexists with unilateralist assertiveness on some issues and a belief that the United States is a force for good,” explains Bruce Stokes, director of global economic attitudes at the Pew Research Center. “For the most part, there is no evidence that the American public has become more isolationist, protectionist, or unilateralist in this election year—despite the raucous debates.” The survey suggests that, amid many global challenges, two thirds of Americans agree the next president should focus on domestic policies. Deep divisions in the electorate and within each party increase uncertainty, itself a threat for a strong economic comeback. While polarization will linger, Stokes concludes that the election results will influence the U.S. role in the world.
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg addresses the media after a NATO-Russia Council at NATO headquarters in Brussels on April 20, 2016. AP Photo/Geert Vanden Wijngaert
WASHINGTON—As Americans decide on their next president, people outside the country who do not have a vote in this election nevertheless have a great stake in the outcome. An election takes the pulse of a nation and may foreshadow future national policy.
What is the degree of isolationist or protectionist sentiment among Americans? Are they committed to multilateralism or do they favor going it alone? How willing are Americans to help nations less fortunate? How partisan are these sentiments and how do the views of each candidate’s supporters differ?
Such public opinion matters because when Americans elect a president his or her policies will affect the rest of the world.
Public opinion matters because when Americans elect a president his or her policies will affect the rest of the world.
