Eight in 10 of respondents say they do n't think a war on Syria would achieve U.S. goals . Poll comes at beginning of a pivotal period for President Obama . More than seven in 10 say they would oppose U.S. airstrikes against Syria if Congress does not authorize it . The president has had at least a small majority behind him in recent years . About eight in 10 believe al - Assad either is or is likely behind chemical weapons attack .
Eight in 10 of respondents say they do n't think a war on Syria would achieve U.S. goals . Poll comes at beginning of a pivotal period for President Obama . The president has had at least a small majority behind him in recent years . About eight in 10 believe al - Assad either is or is likely behind chemical weapons attack .