April 15, 2003

Abstract: (CPOD) Apr. 15, 2003 - Americans do not want their government to participate in new operations of regime change, according to a poll by the New York Times and CBS News. 48 per cent of respondents say the United States should stay out of such affairs, while 29 per cent say the country should do whatever it can to topple dictatorships around the world.

(CPOD) Apr. 15, 2003 - Americans do not want their government to participate in new operations of regime change, according to a poll by the New York Times and CBS News. 48 per cent of respondents say the United States should stay out of such affairs, while 29 per cent say the country should do whatever it can to topple dictatorships around the world.

North Korea tops the list of countries that pose a threat to the United States. Syria—recently in the news as a possible terror haven and destination for former Iraqi leaders—is mentioned by five per cent of respondents.

Americans are split on their government's readiness to rebuild Iraq, but 61 per cent believe the United Nations (UN) should set up the new Iraqi government.

Polling Data

Should the United States try to change a dictatorship to a democracy where it can?

Try to change it	29%
Stay out of those affairs	48%

Is there any country today that poses a serious threat to the United States?

Yes	66%
No	24%

Which country is that?

North Korea	39%
China	6%
Syria	5%
Iraq	5%

Do you think the Bush Administration has developed a clear plan for rebuilding Iraq?

Yes	42%
No	45%

Who should have the lead responsibility for setting up a new government in Iraq?

United Nations	61%
United States	34%

Source: New York Times / CBS News
Methodology: Telephone interviews to 898 American adults, conducted from Apr. 10 to Apr. 13, 2003. Margin of error is 3 per cent.