The Nation - News from Sept. 14, 1987

Looking back at the Iran- contra hearings, a majority of Americans think the proceedings benefited the nation. A Gallup Poll found that 58% of Democrats and independents and 52% of Republicans said the hearings were “good for the nation.” By more than 2 to 1, the respondents believe Congress is exercising “too weak” a role in shaping foreign policy, as opposed to “too strong.” Public doubt that President Reagan told all he knows about the affair remains high, with 75% of those surveyed saying Reagan is “holding back information” and 60% saying his ability to govern has been greatly hampered.