Voters Are Concerned about America’s Role in the World

AUGUST 2025

This document summarizes key findings from six online focus groups conducted by GBAO for National Security Action in August 2025. Participants included Democrats, Republicans, and Independents – all of whom follow U.S. foreign policy at least occasionally. All participants reside in Georgia, Iowa, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Carolina, New Hampshire, Ohio, or Texas.

KEY FINDING:

Voters across the political spectrum expressed a deeply pessimistic view of America’s current role in the world. A Republican from Minnesota, said “I don’t think we’re on top of things like we used to be. I think some countries view us as much lesser than that.” 

A common sentiment was that the United States, under Trump’s leadership, has taken on the posture of a bully, acting abrasively even toward longstanding allies. This aggressive approach has raised concerns about the potential long-term damage to key international relationships, which voters still see as vital. Another Republican, stated “I’m not sure if our partners will have our back as much as they did in the past.” 

There was also a sense of national embarrassment, with many feeling the U.S. has become a global laughingstock – an emotion echoed across various voter groups and supported by polling from National Security Action.

Importantly, despite this disillusionment, most voters did not advocate for increased U.S. engagement abroad. Instead, they voiced a strong desire for America to be seen once again as a respected, principled, and cooperative global leader. Many longed for a return to a time when the U.S. was viewed as a moral beacon and role model, although few could point to a specific period in history when that ideal was fully realized. This indicates a yearning not for a particular policy agenda, but for a restoration of global respect and ethical leadership.

MORE FROM VOTERS:

  • “You know, if you wanted to build a playground, you wouldn't threaten to burn your neighbor's house down if they don't help you. You would develop some support, some relationship, an activity to bring people together in a common effort. What we've done is alienate our allies. And when we need our allies – I mean, like really need them – can we depend on them? I don't know.” (North Carolina Democrat)

  • “[Trump] wants people to be fearing the U.S., rather than feeling like they are an ally… I think it makes us less safe because I think it's just causing a threatening air between countries rather than friendliness. (Georgia Republican)

  • “He just says things off the cuff that's like, hey, what are you doing, man? Why are you endangering this relationship that we've had for a really long time? (North Carolina Independent)

TAKEAWAYS:

  • There is a clear opportunity to connect voters’ disillusionment with America’s global standing to Donald Trump’s conduct as president. Messaging that frames the loss of international respect, influence, and moral leadership as a direct result of Trump’s behavior can be an effective strategy. This taps into a deep desire among voters for the U.S. to once again be seen as a respected, principled global leader.

  • Emphasizing the real-world consequences of Trump’s abrasive, bullying approach – especially its impact on key alliances – can be particularly impactful. While some voters may tolerate Trump’s brash style, even Republicans become alarmed when it threatens America’s reliability and reputation among allies. Framing Trump’s actions as not just undignified but strategically harmful helps draw a sharper contrast and underscores what’s at stake for the country’s future on the world stage.