Increasing Support for U.S. Leadership Amid Military Concerns

A recent defense survey indicates that many Americans are growing more apprehensive about global threats and are calling for the United States to enhance its role in international leadership. This sentiment arises alongside a troubling perception regarding the military’s readiness to confront challenges and succeed in overseas conflicts.

According to the 2025 Reagan National Defense Survey, released by the Ronald Reagan Institute, 64% of Americans believe the U.S. should take a more assertive role globally, a view shared by individuals from both major political parties. However, there’s a stark contrast as only 49% think the U.S. military can successfully win conflicts abroad, while merely 45% feel it can adequately deter foreign threats.

Rachel Hoff, the Reagan Institute’s policy director and one of the study’s authors, mentioned in an interview that while public support for America’s active global engagement has remained consistent over the years, expectations shift when people are asked about specifics.

“The American public is really in favor of a robust U.S. presence on the global stage,” Hoff noted. She added that citizens see America as having “the world’s most powerful military” and believe that this strength helps create a safer, more peaceful world.

Public Hesitance on Military Readiness

The survey reveals a significant enduring trend: a declining confidence in the military. Currently, only 49% of Americans express “a great deal” of trust in the armed forces, a notable drop of 21 points since 2018.

Hoff commented on the widespread nature of this trust decline, affecting Americans of all demographics and political views. Although these numbers appear to have plateaued in the past two years, this reduction reflects a substantial loss of trust in key public institutions.

When asked about the reasons behind this decline, Hoff pointed to a recurring theme in the survey results. “It relates to the increasing politicization of the military,” she argued. “People want to keep political influences out of the military and maintain its focus on its fundamental mission.”

Growing Support for Ukraine

Another striking finding is the rise in support for sending U.S. weapons to Ukraine, now at 64%, which is a 9-point increase from the previous year. Approximately two-thirds of Americans would like to see Ukraine prevail in its ongoing conflict, with 45% favoring ongoing support until Ukraine regains all of its territory occupied by Russia.

Hoff noted that this shift reflects a renewed focus on Ukraine’s situation and a significant change among Republican voters. “Support for sending arms to Ukraine is on the rise, particularly among Republicans,” she explained.

In light of the political climate, Hoff remarked on how public expectations might change if previous leadership returns, hoping that renewed discussions under a different administration might steer toward peace.

Support for Taiwan

According to the survey, public backing for defending Taiwan has surged. Now, 60% of Americans support sending troops to assist Taiwan if there’s an invasion by China, a notable rise from 48% the previous year. Many other potential U.S. actions in this context also saw an increase in support.

Hoff attributed this shift to a growing perception of China as the primary strategic threat to the U.S. “Responses regarding the possibility of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan have increased significantly,” she said. “Americans clearly differentiate between allies and adversaries.”

Anticipated Actions from Policymakers

As the Pentagon reassesses its defense strategies and the resources needed to counter China and Russia, Hoff indicated that the public’s demand for strong leadership and capability is evident. “Americans are aware of the global threats and want our nation to champion freedom,” she emphasized. They expect a military well-prepared to safeguard U.S. interests and maintain global stability.

In light of the survey results, Hoff advised defense leaders to recognize that the public favors a substantial U.S. military presence worldwide. “People are really supportive of our engagement and backing for allies,” she concluded, highlighting the desire for a military that can effectively address challenges on a global scale.