Eight in ten Americans who are aware of the packages sent from Yemen containing ingredients for bombs and discovered on cargo and passenger planes expect there to be more attempts to send packages containing bombs to the United States. But nearly half of those interviewed in the latest Economist/YouGov Poll still believe the United States is safer from terrorism than it was in 2001.
Americans want more screening of packages than there is now; 52% think the screening of letters and packages is not tight enough. 28% say it’s about right. Two in three have at least some confidence in the Department of Homeland Security’s ability to protect Americans.
But nearly six in ten Americans believe another terrorist attack in the next 12 months is at least somewhat likely. That figure is lower than it was after the Christmas Day underwear bombing attempt, but higher than it was at the start of 2009.
Americans are not sure about the best way to deal with terrorism. 55%, including many Republicans, say it is better to confront countries who may be engaged in terrorism. But 45%, including many Democrats, say staying out of other countries’ affairs is the better approach. Independents are evenly divided.
The President’s approval rating on handling terrorism is 45% this week, up from 42% last week. 43% disapprove, down from 48% a week ago.
