An overwhelming majority of Americans regard foreign policy and national defense as “somewhat” or “extremely” important, according to a newly released survey by the Ronald Reagan Institute. The survey outcomes reflect U.S. attitudes toward rival nations while pinpointing the country perceived as posing the “greatest threat” to national security.

As the nation anticipates a potential shift in presidential leadership—from the Biden administration to a potential second term of Donald Trump—there is significant uncertainty regarding the future of U.S. foreign affairs. With escalating tensions among nations like Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, the survey reveals a rare bipartisan alignment regarding the significance of national defense and global engagement.

“Americans who cast their votes for different candidates share an unshakable belief: the United States must lead on the world stage, backed by a strong military capable of securing peace through its strength,” reported the Ronald Reagan Institute in its 2024 National Defense Survey, initially shared with Fox News Digital.

Americans Support Global Leadership and Strong Military Engagement

The survey—based on approximately 2,500 responses collected between November 8-14 through telephone and online platforms—highlights that national security and foreign affairs remain prioritized issues for Americans. Notably, the findings indicate robust support for the U.S. to assume a leadership role in addressing significant international challenges. This sentiment poses a contrast to Trump’s long-standing “America First” philosophy, raising concerns of potential U.S. isolation amid global instability.

“It’s intriguing to compare some of the campaign rhetoric from both candidates—Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris—to see where it resonates with the American people,” stated Rachael Hoff, Policy Director at the Ronald Reagan Institute, during an interview with Fox News Digital.

The survey further illustrates a notable trend: an unprecedented rise in American support for U.S. leadership and international engagement, particularly with an enhanced global military presence. Over the past year, support for such engagement has heightened by 15 percentage points, with younger respondents spearheading this shift. Among Americans under 30, support surged by a remarkable 32 points, while individuals aged 30-44 saw a 19-point increase.

Rising Concerns About Global Threats

Amid these findings, Americans have increasingly voiced their concerns over adversarial nations and their growing partnerships. The apprehensions surrounding the burgeoning alliance between Russia, Iran, China, and North Korea appear to have intensified the call for heightened U.S. global engagement, especially in critical regions like East Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Respondents predominantly identified China as the foremost threat to the U.S., with Russia ranking closely behind as the primary adversary.

The confidence level regarding the U.S. military’s capability to win potential conflicts with these nations showcased mixed results. While 59% of male respondents expressed belief in the U.S.’s ability to succeed in a conflict against China, only 45% of female respondents shared that sentiment. Similarly, more males (73%) demonstrated confidence in the U.S. overpowering Russia militarily, compared to 56% of females.

Despite these differences in confidence, a significant majority of Americans concurred about the overarching challenges posed by adversarial alliances. An impressive 85% of respondents articulated significant concern about the collaboration between Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, with many referencing the tangible ramifications of these alliances in regions such as Ukraine and the Middle East.

“One of the biggest trends we’ve observed over the past several years is a growing consensus that China poses the greatest threat to the U.S.,” Hoff explained. This view resonates across the political spectrum, in line with public sentiments regarding the risks linked with authoritarian regimes’ collaborations.

Balancing Domestic Priorities with Global Commitments

While the survey showcased robust backing for military strength and global engagement, respondents also highlighted the significance of addressing domestic priorities such as healthcare, border security, and Social Security funding. Hoff noted that while Americans prioritize domestic issues, they do not wish to see national security concerns set aside.

“What we observe from the survey is that Americans don’t view foreign policy and national security as areas they want to divest from,” Hoff stated. “The notion that Americans are leaning towards isolationism is not supported by the data.”

Instead, Americans expect their government to effectively balance these competing priorities. “They want their government to ‘walk and chew gum at the same time,’” Hoff remarked, countering arguments suggesting that the U.S. populace favors diminished international engagement.

A Bipartisan Call for Leadership

The survey encapsulates a bipartisan desire for the U.S. to assert leadership from a position of strength, defend global democracy, and exhibit military might. This sentiment bridges political divides, uniting both Republican and Democratic voters, including supporters of both President Trump and Vice President Harris.

“Americans want the U.S. to stand up for the values of freedom and democracy worldwide, backed by a strong military,” emphasized Hoff. “This belief is shared across the political spectrum.”