A growing share of Americans believe the United States is acting alone on the global stage, with a majority now saying U.S. foreign policy fails to consider the interests of other nations.
That’s according to a new Pew Research Center survey, which found 53% of U.S. adults say the country takes into account the interests of other countries “not too much” or “not at all” when making international decisions — a sharp increase from 27% just three years ago.
The shift is being driven largely by Democrats, with three-quarters now holding that view — the highest level recorded in more than two decades of polling. Republican views have remained more consistent over time, with majorities generally saying the U.S. does consider other nations’ interests.
The survey highlights deep partisan divides in how Americans see the country’s role in the world. Republicans are far more likely to say the U.S. contributes to global peace and stability, is respected internationally and is gaining influence. Democrats, by contrast, are more likely to say the U.S. is losing influence, lacks global respect and fails to promote stability.
Overall, 41% of Americans say U.S. influence in the world has been getting weaker in recent years, though that share has declined slightly as more Republicans say the country’s global standing is improving.
At the same time, there is broad agreement on at least one point: 83% of Americans say the U.S. interferes in the affairs of other countries, including large majorities across both parties.
Despite concerns about how the U.S. operates globally, most Americans still support a more cooperative approach. About 65% say the country should take other nations’ interests into account when dealing with major international issues, even if it requires compromise.
The survey also reflects shifting views of global power. While the U.S. remains the most frequently named superpower, many Americans also point to China and, to a lesser extent, Russia as dominant forces.
Researchers say the findings underscore a broader uncertainty about America’s place in the world, shaped by partisan divides and changing global dynamics.
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