Insight

‘Special relationship’ is as strong as ever

‘Special relationship’ is as strong as ever

The results show that the public’s estimation of Barack Obama has taken a tumble. Back in January almost four times as many people (38% to 10%) thought the President’s second term would be more successful than his first, but this has dropped to a far more even 24% to 16%.

However, the flexing of muscle over Syria might have improved some British perceptions of the United States. The number of people who agree that the US has become less powerful during Barack Obama’s time in office has fallen from 40% to 33%.

Most surprisingly, considering the media’s portrayal of damaged UK – US relations since Syria, the UK public seem to think the ‘special relationship’ is just as strong as it was before. A majority still thought Britain has a uniquely close relationship with the US (55%), and that the US is Britain’s most important ally (53%). Both almost unchanged from January (57% and 55% respectively).

Opinium Research carried out an online survey of 2,003 UK adults. Results have been weighted to nationally representative criteria. The research was conducted from 3rd to 6th September 2013.