U.S. President Donald Trump receives higher approval for his hardline immigration policies than for his handling of the economy, foreign policy, or other key issues, according to Reuters/Ipsos polling. As Trump intensifies arrests and deportations, roughly half of U.S. respondents have expressed support for his immigration approach, compared to just over a third who approve of his management of the high cost of living, a major issue in his 2024 campaign.
The poll reveals that immigration remains Trump’s strongest issue, with substantial backing from both his Republican base and independents. However, immigration is still a lower priority for Americans than the economy, which many respondents see as more critical.
Approximately 86% of Republicans supported Trump’s immigration actions, while 69% backed his approach to the cost of living. Trump’s aggressive actions, including sending military troops to the U.S.-Mexico border and increasing arrests, have drawn significant attention. Despite this, deportations have not matched the pace under former President Joe Biden’s administration.
Trump has also targeted legal immigration, attempting to freeze the U.S. refugee resettlement program and revoke visas and green cards from students involved in pro-Palestinian protests. His administration’s efforts, including executive orders to limit birthright citizenship, have sparked legal battles.
In February, illegal border crossings dropped to their lowest levels in decades, with March’s figures expected to be similar or even lower. Republican pollster Whit Ayres highlighted that Trump’s focus on immigration has been his most successful issue, although his economic policies have faced criticism.
Despite maintaining a stable approval rating, Trump’s economic and foreign policy approval rates remain lower than his immigration ratings. His administration has leveraged the sentiment that Americans prefer tougher immigration enforcement, with recent polls indicating broad support for increased deportations.
While Trump’s more aggressive immigration measures have garnered support from some, they have also raised concerns about due process and the impact on non-criminal immigration violators. Immigration advocacy groups warn that these measures could destabilize families and communities, potentially leading to a backlash from voters who are concerned about the broader consequences of such policies.
