Just over 40% of Americans are in favor of the substantial foreign aid package that was made into law on Wednesday, based on a new poll, highlighting differing opinions on the $95 billion spending.
According to the Monmouth University survey, 43% of Americans back the bill, while 35% oppose it, showing a significant split in opinion on whether the U.S. should help allies in foreign conflicts.
The package provides $61 billion for Ukraine aid, with most of it going toward replenishing U.S. military supplies, and $24 billion for Israel and humanitarian aid in Gaza. A portion of the package — around $8 billion — will be used to assist Taiwan and other partners in the Indo-Pacific region against China.
The majority of Democrats, 65%, support the package, while only 36% of independents and 30% of Republicans are in favor.
President Biden commented on the signing of the legislation, saying, “It’s a positive day for America, Europe, and global peace. It will enhance America's safety, make the world more secure, and continue America’s leadership globally, and everyone recognizes that.”
The bill's signing follows months of negotiations and conflicts. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) eventually allowed a vote to proceed last week, despite facing calls for his removal from conservatives.
Despite the passage of the foreign aid bill, the poll revealed that the Speaker continues to be under threat from at least three GOP members who have pledged to support a motion to vacate, with little change in perceptions of the Speaker among Americans.
Monmouth polling director Patrick Murray remarked, “The foreign aid package may be a significant policy victory, but politically, it has not enhanced Speaker Johnson’s standing.”
Around 21% of voters approve of Johnson’s performance, a small increase from 17% in December. The poll also found that about 20% of Republicans want him removed from the Speakership.
The Monmouth University survey interviewed approximately 800 individuals over the past weekend, with a margin of error of 4.1%.
