Public Opposes More Troops for Afghanistan

Americans oppose the idea of sending more troops to Afghanistan by 50 percent to 41 percent with 9 percent undecided, according to a Gallup poll conducted Sept. 22-23.

When those who oppose a troop increase were asked whether they favor keeping the U.S. presence at the current level or drawing-down American forces, they favor withdrawal 82 percent to 14 percent.

Republicans back a troop increase, 63 percent to 30 percent, while Democrats oppose it, 62 percent to 30 percent, as do independents, 54-38.

Gallup puts its finger on President Obama's dilemma as he ponders Gen. Stanley McChrystal's request for more troops: "Should Obama turn down such a request, he risks the ire of Republicans and others who will most likely argue that he is ignoring the wishes of his commanders on the ground, and making a mistake that could result in increased risk of terrorism, among other things. Should he agree to order more troops, he will go against the wishes of the broad U.S. population -- and, in particular, the rank-and-file of his own party, which at the moment is more opposed to than in favor of such an action."