Following the transfer of sovereignty on Monday morning, 41% of American voters say it is somewhat or very likely that Iraq will become a peaceful nation enjoying the benefits of freedom and democracy.

A Rasmussen Reports survey found that most voters are more pessimistic. Fifty-five percent (55%) say Iraq is not very likely or not at all likely to be so fortunate.

These numbers are little changed from a month ago when 39% said Iraq was likely to succeed in achieving these goal and 57% disagreed.

Men are more optimistic than women and conservatives are more optimistic than liberals. Demographic information is available for Premium Members.

The survey also found that just 36% of American voters now believe the nation is safer than it was before the 9/11 terrorist attacks. That figure is down from 41% a month ago.

Forty-four percent (44%) say the nation is not safer while 19% are not sure.

Sixty-one percent (61%) believe it is somewhat or very likely that there will be a significant terrorist attack in the United States over the next few months.