WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump's recent bid to assert U.S. control over Greenland has not only sparked controversy but also provoked significant disapproval among many Republicans. According to a new AP-NORC poll, around 70% of U.S. adults disapprove of Trump's handling of Greenland, which is a semi-autonomous territory of NATO ally Denmark, marking a notable weak point in his administration.
While Trump's base historically remains loyal, this situation is different; about half of Republican respondents expressed disapproval regarding his Greenland plans. Trump's assertion that securing Greenland is paramount for American national security amid threats from Russia and China falls short of convincing a faction of his party.
The poll, conducted from February 5-8, highlights that Trump's ratings on Greenland represent his lowest approval among Republicans on major issues, contrasting sharply with his 80% approval ratings on immigration and economic policies. Despite backing from some party members, younger Republicans aged under 45 are particularly dissatisfied, with about 60% voicing their opposition.
A significant concern is Trump's decision to abandon tariff threats aimed at Europe to further his interests in Greenland, coupled with ongoing tensions that were underlined during the Munich Security Conference. The persistent disapproval of Trump's Greenland approach poses questions about his broader foreign policy strategy.
Ayman Amir, a supporter from Houston, emphasized the moral ramifications of such actions, opposing the idea of asserting territorial claims through force. “We can’t take it by force. We don’t have a right to do that,” he stated, reflecting the discontent some of Trump's loyal supporters feel regarding his Greenland ambitions.
In conclusion, while Trump maintains a steady overall foreign policy approval standing at 40%, his Greenland strategy has distinctly muddied the waters within his support, calling into question the viability of his tough-on-foreigners approach.
