Poll shows 81% of Americans view crime in big cities as major issue, Internet says 'Trump is stepping up'

WASHINGTON, DC: The majority of Americans now view crime in large cities as one of the most pressing national issues, according to a new poll.

At the same time, fewer support federal takeovers of local police departments, despite rising concern.

Donald Trump gains approval on crime issue amid poll findings

The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research survey suggests crime has become a political strength for President Donald Trump, even as many remain dissatisfied with his performance on the economy, immigration, and foreign conflicts.

The poll shows 81% of Americans consider crime a "major problem" in large cities, a point Trump has highlighted while deploying the National Guard in Washington, DC, despite officials claiming it is at a 30% low, and threatening to expand that approach to other cities.

His overall approval rating has ticked up from 40% in July to 45% now. Republicans are driving this belief, with nearly all in agreement, while about seven in 10 Democrats and independents share the concern.

About half of US adults, 53%, say they approve of Trump’s handling of crime, giving him higher ratings on that issue than on immigration, the economy, or the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

Republicans back military help but hesitate on police takeovers

While Republicans overwhelmingly support using the military and National Guard to assist local police, they are more cautious about allowing the federal government to take over local police departments.

The survey found 55% of Americans say it is “completely” or “somewhat” unacceptable for the federal government to do so, even as Trump has effectively asserted control in Washington.

For Charles Arnold, 87, a retired electronics technician and Navy veteran from San Diego, the situation is complicated. “About damn time that somebody did something,” Arnold said.

He admitted it was “jarring” to see the National Guard used for domestic law enforcement, adding, “That’s not what the armed forces are for. They shouldn’t be there. They shouldn’t have to be there. The police should be allowed to police. I detest the thought that it needs to be done.”

For some, Trump’s actions are welcome. David Gehret, 62, a maintenance technician from Narvon, Pennsylvania, strongly approves of the deployment. “Bring it on,” Gehret said. “Protect us.”

Still, Democrats largely reject both the use of the National Guard and federal takeovers of police departments, showing a clear partisan divide in how Americans want crime addressed.

Internet reacts to poll showing 81% view crime as major problem

The poll sparked strong reactions online, with many pointing to its political weight.

One user wrote, “81% calling crime a major issue shows just how urgent the debate around safety in US cities has become.”

Another added, “Better show the DNC this poll, especially Chuck Schumer.”

Others focused on public safety, with one comment reading, “Americans deserve to feel safe walking down the street.”

Another said, “81% of Americans say crime is a 'major problem' in large cities. Democrats are in denial. President Trump is taking action.”

"Crime’s a real issue—81% see it as major in cities. Action’s needed, and Trump’s stepping up. Let’s focus on solutions!" wrote one more X user.

"When more than two out of three Democrats say crime in big cities is a major problem, Democrat politicians had better listen and act accordingly," said a user.

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.