ABC News/Washington Post War Poll #3, April 2003

This special topic poll, conducted April 16, 2003, was undertaken to assess public opinion on the war against Iraq. Respondents were asked whether they approved of the way President George W. Bush was handling the presidency, whether they supported or opposed the war, and whether the United States was doing enough to restore civil order in Iraq. Opinions were sought on the importance of the United States capturing or killing Iraqi President Saddam Hussein, finding biological or chemical weapons in Iraq, restoring civil order in Baghdad and elsewhere, providing humanitarian aid, rebuilding the infrastructure in Iraq, and helping establish a new government in Iraq. Those polled were asked whether the United States or the United Nations should take the lead in awarding contracts to companies for rebuilding the infrastructure, helping maintain civil order until a new government is established, and helping establish a new government in Iraq. Views were sought on whether the war with Iraq was considered part of the war against terrorism, whether the war would increase the risk of further terrorism in the United States, and the chances that the United States would become bogged down in a drawn-out peace keeping operation in Iraq. A series of questions addressed Syria and North Korea, nations accused of developing weapons of mass destruction and supporting terrorists by the Bush administration. Topics covered the possible use of diplomatic/economic pressure, military force, and going to war to remove their governments from power. Background information on respondents includes age, gender, and political party.