When Do Voters Say the President Can Use the National Guard?

Publication Date: 09/11/2025 5:00 PM CST

When Do Voters Say the President Can Use the National Guard?

Publication: 09/11/2025 5:00 PM CST

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Forty-six percent (46%) of voters believe the president should have the authority to send in the national guard where he believes it is necessary, even if local officials are opposed, while 44% disagree.
However, when informed about weeks of protests outside federal buildings in Portland, Oregon, voters were then asked if the president should have authority to send in the National Guard "to protect federal agents and federal buildings, even if local officials are opposed."
- Fifty-two percent (52%) of voters say he should have that authority, while 36% say he should not.
A similar subtle shift occurs when asked about Washington, D.C.
- The numbers are virtually identical to Oregon (51% say yes, 35% say no).
- In this case, voters were reminded that Washington, D.C. is "a unique city, established by the Constitution and placed under the authority of the federal government.
When asked simply if sending in the national guard to cities with high crime would make things better or worse, 53% said better, and 38% said worse.
- A quarter (24%) said much better, and a quarter (25%) said much worse.