A recent poll conducted by Langer Research Associates and PORI (Public Opinion Research Israel) reveals that a significant majority of Israelis favor former President Donald Trump over Vice President Kamala Harris in the upcoming U.S. presidential election. The survey, which was carried out between September 8 and September 22 among a sample of 1,012 Israelis, indicates that 54% of respondents express a preference for Trump, while only 24% lean towards Harris. This two-to-one margin highlights the prevailing sentiment in Israel regarding U.S. leadership and its implications for Israel’s security and diplomatic relations.
The findings of the survey suggest a strong belief among Israelis that Trump’s leadership would contribute positively to Israel’s security. An overwhelming 58% of participants in the survey stated that they believe Trump would be better for Israel’s security, whereas only 20% thought the same of Harris. If given the opportunity to vote in the U.S. election, the preference for Trump remains consistent, with 54% of respondents choosing him over Harris, while a portion of respondents opted not to express a preference. This data indicates that Israeli public opinion largely aligns with pro-Trump sentiments, particularly concerning national security issues.
Notably, the preferences expressed in the poll tend to mirror the existing political divisions within Israel itself. The poll reveals that among supporters of Israel’s ruling coalition led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a staggering 88% consider Trump to be more favorable for Israel’s security, and 84% prefer him over Harris in the context of the U.S. presidency. This trend can be interpreted as a reflection of the current tensions between Netanyahu’s government and the Biden administration, showcasing a clear alignment between Israeli right-wing politics and the preferences for U.S leadership.
In contrast, the attitudes among supporters of Israeli opposition parties are more divided. The survey indicates a close split among this demographic, with 39% favoring Harris and 37% favoring Trump as their choice for the American presidency. However, even among opposition party supporters, a slight majority believes that Trump would be better for Israel’s security, reflecting a complex political landscape where national security remains a priority across the political spectrum. This divide underscores the nuanced views held by different segments of Israeli society when it comes to American political figures.
Furthermore, the poll also highlights notable differences in opinion based on religious identity. Among Jewish respondents in Israel, 58% express support for Trump, in stark contrast to the 23% who support Harris. This finding outlines a significant divergence from polling results in the United States, where Trump has struggled to garner support from Jewish voters. The disparity in views can be attributed to varying perceptions of candidates’ policies and their potential impact on U.S.-Israel relations, emphasizing the importance of understanding the distinct political climates in both nations.
In summary, the polling data reveals a clear inclination among Israelis towards Donald Trump over Kamala Harris, predominantly influenced by perceptions of security and political alignment with the Israeli government. The survey’s insights into the preferences of various political factions, as well as the impact of religious identity on political opinions, suggest a complex interplay between U.S. and Israeli politics. The findings illustrate the significance of U.S. presidential elections for Israelis, as they seek leaders whom they believe will uphold and enhance their national security interests, reflecting broader geopolitical considerations that transcend party politics.