In a recent AP-NORC poll conducted in January 2024, only 40% of Americans identified foreign policy as a key issue, while 60% do not view it as a top concern [b93539b]. This lack of attention comes at a time when the U.S. is deeply involved in multiple violent conflicts, including Israel's ongoing multi-front war and Saudi Arabia's military actions in Yemen. The normalization of relations with Saudi Arabia has raised troubling questions regarding the U.S.'s knowledge of the events leading up to the 9/11 attacks [b93539b].
As the U.S. continues to supply humanitarian aid and arms to Ukraine amid the Russian invasion, the implications of foreign policy decisions extend beyond international relations and significantly affect domestic issues [b93539b]. The economic impact of U.S. sanctions on Cuba has been severe, further complicating the narrative surrounding American foreign policy and its consequences on the ground [b93539b].
Moreover, immigration has increasingly been treated as a domestic issue, often ignoring the U.S.'s role in causing migration through its foreign policies [b93539b]. This disconnect allows politicians to evade accountability for decisions that have far-reaching effects on both international and domestic fronts. With Donald Trump set to take office on January 20, 2025, there are concerns about potential mass deportations and cuts to social programs, which could exacerbate the challenges faced by vulnerable populations [b93539b].
The current political climate underscores the necessity for voters to recognize the significant impact of foreign policy on domestic issues. As foreign policy decisions are frequently made without public interest in mind, it is crucial for American voters to engage with these topics to ensure that their concerns are reflected in the political discourse [b93539b].