Poll reveals broad American desire for end to Iran conflict

A significant majority of Americans are urging the newly elected Democratic-led Congress to take decisive action to end the ongoing war with Iran and to repeal tariffs implemented by the Trump administration. This sentiment, highlighted in a recent Reuters and Ipsos poll, reflects a widespread demand for immediate measures to address rising living costs across the nation.

The survey, which was conducted online over four days and concluded on Monday, found that 71 percent of respondents want Congress to pass legislation ending the conflict. This support spans the political divide, with 93 percent of Democrats and 51 percent of Republicans favoring such a move. The war was initiated by President Donald Trump in February alongside Israel.

This political shift follows last week's midterm elections, where Democrats secured their largest majorities in both the Senate and the House of Representatives since at least 2008. The results were interpreted as a sharp rebuke of Trump's Republican Party over concerns regarding high costs and the unpopularity of the war. The new Democratic leadership will officially assume power when the Congress is sworn in on January 3.

Beyond the war, a substantial 62 percent of respondents expressed support for efforts to repeal import tariffs established by the Trump administration. The conflict with Iran has contributed to a sharp increase in fuel prices, which has further fueled inflation already exacerbated by new taxes on hundreds of imported goods. While Trump has argued that the war is necessary to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, he has also maintained that his tariffs will strengthen American industry by shielding it from cheaper foreign imports.

Democratic leaders have pledged to prioritize cost of living concerns and are determined to force an end to the hostilities with Iran. Many within the party have also committed to dismantling the existing tariff structures. The poll also indicated a desire for cooperation, with large majorities in both parties believing it is important for Trump and the new Democratic leaders to work together.

When asked about priorities for the first 100 days of the new Congress, nine in 10 respondents identified cost of living issues as the top focus. Other topics, such as artificial intelligence regulation, immigration reform, and climate change, received smaller shares of support. However, some voters remain concerned that Democrats might use their new power to launch legal proceedings against the president.

Specifically, 42 percent of poll respondents said it would be bad for the country if the new Congress attempted to impeach Trump, while 33 percent believed it would be beneficial. The remaining respondents were unsure or did not answer. Congressional Democrats themselves are divided on how to lower healthcare costs and on the aggressiveness with which they should target the president and his cabinet members.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is expected to face an impeachment vote in the House this week, a move initiated by a Republican lawmaker. Following the elections, Trump stated he would probably get along with Democrats, yet he appointed Stephen Miller, a polarizing aide who has described the Democratic Party as a domestic extremist group, as his new White House chief of staff.

The poll also provided insight into public opinion on both parties. Trump's approval rating stands at 32 percent, near the lowest point of his political career. Democrats are not particularly popular either, with 45 percent of Americans viewing them favorably and 51 percent unfavorably. Republicans fare worse, with only 35 percent favorable ratings and 60 percent unfavorable. On the issue of regulating artificial intelligence, 28 percent of respondents preferred the Democratic approach, while 20 percent favored the Republican approach.

The Reuters and Ipsos survey collected responses from 1,705 US adults nationwide. The study carries a margin of error of approximately two percentage points, providing a detailed snapshot of the current political landscape as the new Congress prepares to convene.