Support for NATO is becoming increasingly partisan in the United States, with Republicans growing more skeptical of the alliance as former President Donald Trump continues to shape the party's foreign policy outlook. On a recent episode of The Economist's Inside Defence show, Rachel Ellehuus, director-general of the Royal United Services Institute, joined defense editor Shashank Joshi to analyze the shift.
The discussion highlighted that the change in Republican attitudes is not merely a response to Trump's rhetoric but reflects a deeper ideological divide. While Democrats remain largely supportive of NATO and its role in collective security, many Republicans now view the alliance as a burden on American taxpayers, with some questioning whether the U.S. should continue to lead the organization.
"The notion that NATO is a liability rather than an asset has gained traction among Republican voters," Ellehuus noted, emphasizing that this sentiment has been amplified by Trump's frequent criticism of allied nations for not meeting defense spending targets.
The conversation also explored how America's commitment to European security is evolving, with experts warning that a prolonged decline in bipartisan support could weaken the alliance's ability to respond to threats. The upcoming midterm elections are seen as a critical test for NATO's future, as control of Congress could influence defense policy and funding.
European leaders, meanwhile, are seeking ways to reassure Washington of their commitment while preparing for a potential reduction in U.S. military backing. The episode concludes with a call for Europeans to invest more in their own defense capabilities to ensure the alliance's resilience regardless of American political shifts.