MAGA Base Backs Israel, Iran Military Action in CPAC Poll

Survey shows continued strong support among Trump's base for aggressive foreign policy stance.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 7:15pm

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A straw poll conducted at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) this past weekend found that the MAGA base of former President Donald Trump continues to strongly support military operations against Iran as well as unwavering backing for Israel, even as the US engages in ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Why it matters

The CPAC straw poll results provide insight into the policy priorities and foreign policy views of the Republican party's most fervent supporters, who remain a powerful force within the party despite Trump's electoral defeat. The findings suggest the MAGA movement's hawkish stance on Iran and Israel is unlikely to soften anytime soon.

The details

The straw poll, which surveyed CPAC attendees, found that 78% supported US military action against Iran, while 92% expressed support for Israel. These results align with the aggressive foreign policy positions championed by Trump during his presidency, which remain popular among his most ardent backers.

  • The CPAC straw poll was conducted over the weekend of March 28-30, 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

The former US president whose 'America First' agenda and hardline stance on Iran and Israel continue to resonate with his political base.

Susie Wiles

The current White House Chief of Staff, who was photographed with Trump during military operations in Iran.

Marco Rubio

The US Secretary of State, who was also photographed with Trump during the military operations in Iran.

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The takeaway

The CPAC straw poll results underscore the enduring influence of the MAGA movement within the Republican party, and suggest that the party's hardline stance on Iran and Israel is unlikely to soften in the near future, even as the US navigates a complex geopolitical landscape.