America Is In a Military Mood

Reflecting the intensity of these views, 66% of Americans say they would favor the reinstatement of the draft if a ground invasion becomes necessary. Sixty-two percent believe Congress should declare war now — although a majority (61%) is not sure whom we should declare war against.

If military actions do occur, most Americans think they will lead to a larger conflict: 65% say it is likely that strikes against bin Laden will lead to a broader war between the U.S. and other countries in the Middle East or Asia.

Fear of Additional Attacks

A majority of Americans think additional attacks are at least somewhat likely elsewhere in the country, and one in three reports that they will change some aspects of their personal life as a result.

39% think it is "very likely" that bombings or similar acts of violence will occur elsewhere in the U.S. in the near future. (This is fewer than the 50% who thought such actions were very likely following the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995).

34% say they will change some aspect of their personal life to reduce the chances of becoming a victim of terror. (The figure was 24% after the Oklahoma City bombing).

The Personal Response

Americans report they are likely to take numerous personal actions in response to the attacks — including, in a minority of cases, cutting back on spending and stockpiling emergency supplies.