President Donald Trump stated yesterday that the only issue mattering to him when negotiating with Iran is preventing the nation from obtaining a nuclear weapon, and he does not consider Americans’ financial circumstances a factor.
The remark came before Trump departed for China.
However, Trump’s insistence on promoting a narrative contradicted by all 18 U.S. intelligence agencies has drawn sharp criticism. His job approval ratings have plummeted, reflecting widespread public opposition to the war against Iran.
Polling data consistently show that Americans are not interested in a conflict against Iran on Israel’s behalf and do not prioritize whether Iran possesses nuclear weapons.
All 18 U.S. intelligence agencies had determined that Iran was not building a nuclear weapon before Trump launched military action following Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s claims.
The RealClearPolitics average of polls indicates Americans do not support the war: only 40 percent favor it, while 54.7 percent oppose it. Since February 28—the day U.S. and Israeli forces began bombing Iran—just nine out of dozens of polls show any level of support for the action.
An Economist/YouGov poll ending May 11 revealed a 22-point opposition margin (56% opposed to 34% supported), while a Reuters/Ipsos survey showed a 26-point gap (61% opposed, 35% supported).
Only two of the last 30 polls indicated support for the war, by margins as low as 4 points and 1 point.
When pressed on economic impacts, Trump stated: “The most important thing … is Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. I don’t think about Americans’ financial situation.”
Vice President J.D. Vance clarified that the remark was a misrepresentation but agreed with the goal of preventing Iranian nuclear development.
House Speaker Mike Johnson noted that Trump is focused on resolving the conflict to address economic pressures.
Polling data further show that only 40.2 percent approve of Trump’s performance, compared to 56.5 percent who disapprove.
The war has driven gas prices to record highs, with the national average reaching $4.51 per gallon.
