Trump approval steady after Venezuela raid, poll shows; MAGA base strongly backs action
A new poll finds public approval of the U.S. military operation to capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro closely mirrors President Donald Trump's overall job rating, with neither commanding majority support. The survey reveals sharp partisan divides, with MAGA-aligned Republicans showing the strongest backing for the raid and potential future actions.
President Donald Trump's overall approval rating has shown little movement following the high-profile U.S. military operation that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, according to a new CBS News/YouGov poll. Public opinion on the specific raid closely tracks Trump's broader job performance, revealing a deeply polarized electorate with modest overall support for the intervention.
Partisan Divides in Support
The poll indicates slightly more Americans approve of the military action itself than approve of Trump's general handling of Venezuela policy, though neither view secures a majority. The most pronounced support comes from Republicans aligned with the MAGA movement. Members of this group most frequently cited stopping drug trafficking and strengthening America's global position as key reasons for their backing. They were also far more likely than other demographics to favor additional military steps if Venezuela is perceived as uncooperative.
Public Perception of Motives and Future Plans
Approval is heavily influenced by perceived motives. Respondents who believe the operation aimed primarily to gain access to Venezuelan oil or expand U.S. regional influence tended to disapprove. Conversely, those viewing it as a move against drugs and terrorism—a perspective more common among Republicans—expressed stronger support. A majority of Americans feel the administration has not clearly explained its long-term plans for Venezuela, and approval is higher among those who believe future U.S. military involvement will be limited.
Congressional Oversight and Broader Sentiment
On the question of authority, a majority of respondents maintain that Congress must approve any additional military involvement in Venezuela, consistent with sentiment prior to the raid. Most Americans said they would not support further military action against Venezuela or other regional countries perceived as uncooperative with U.S. interests, suggesting limited public appetite for an expanded campaign.
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