GOP retains advantage on terrorism; Democrats now lead on foreign policy Which party could do a better job dealing with
But the Democratic Party has made sharp gains compared with a year ago on several issues – notably, foreign policy and immigration. Currently, 49% of Americans say the Democratic Party is better able to make wise decisions about foreign policy, while 36% favor the GOP. A year ago, Republicans were favored on foreign policy, 46% to 38%. Democrats also lead on dealing with immigration, 50% to 39%; in recent years, the parties have run about even on this issue.
And, with budget debates looming this month in Congress, 48% say the Democratic Party better represents their views on government spending, while 40% say the Republican Party does.
GOP retains advantage on terrorism; Democrats now  | lead on foreign policy  | Which party could do a better job dealing with  | Democratic Party  | Republican Party  | Terrorist threat  | 36%  | 48%  | R+12  | Gun policy  | R+5  | 41  | 46  | Economy  | 43  | 46  | R+3  | Trade  | 45  | R+3  | 42  | Taxes  | 43  | 44  | R+1  | Govt spending  | D+8  | 48  | 40  | Immigration  | D+11  | 50  | 39  | Foreign policy  | 49  | 36  | D+13  | Education  | D+16  | 52  | 36  | Health care  | D+19  | 54  | 35  | Abortion  | D+20  | 53  | 33  | Environment  | D+31  | 59  | 28  | Note: Don't know responses not shown. Q61.  | Source: Survey conducted April 5-11, 2017. Q61.  | PEW RESEARCH CENTER 