Public divided on Obama’s approach to Iraq

Most people believe President Obama is not properly handling the situation unfolding in Iraq, but they are split on which approach he should take, according to a new poll. 

In total, 51 percent believe he should take a different approach — with 29 percent saying he should do more and 22 percent saying he should do less, according to a New York Times-CBS poll released Monday. 

Forty-one percent said he is properly addressing the issue. Last week, the administration announced it was sending 300 military advisers to the country to help the Iraqi military deal with the Sunni extremist uprising. The United States has increased its surveillance and intelligence there, and Secretary of State John Kerry traveled to the region Monday. 

The president also said the United States is prepared for “targeted and precise” military action if necessary.

The poll found opinion breaks down along party lines. Fifty-three percent of Republicans want to see Obama do more, while 19 percent say he is doing enough. Sixty-three percent of Democrats said he is doing enough, while 13 percent said he should do more. 

Fifty percent of people said the United States has no obligation to help end the violence in the country, while 42 percent said the United States has some responsibility. A narrow majority of Republicans believe the United States has an obligation to the country, while majorities of Democrats and independents think the opposite. 

Those who served in Iraq or have a family member who served were less likely to say that United States has an obligation to the country. 

Overall, 44 percent said the violence there would increase the possibility of terrorism in the United States, while 50 percent said it would have no effect. 

The poll surveyed 1,008 people from June 20-23 and has a margin of error of plus or minus 4 percent.