Latino Voters Shift Away from Trump Ahead of Midterm Elections
Latino men who supported President Donald Trump during his 2024 election return are now distancing themselves from him as the November midterm elections approach. According to a NBC News/Telemundo poll, Trump’s approval has declined among this demographic, raising questions about whether Democratic gains could be permanent.
Poll Findings
The survey reveals that Trump’s approval rating among Latino men is at 33%, with 64% disapproving of his performance. On a generic congressional ballot, Democrats hold a 24-point lead among Latino voters, with 59% preferring Democratic control of Congress, compared to 35% favoring Republicans. Despite Latino women remaining more Democratic-leaning, both genders show predominantly negative views of Trump.
The poll indicates a significant downturn in sentiment among Latino men, mirroring broader concerns within the Latino electorate about the economy and immigration enforcement. Trump’s approval is notably low among Latino voters overall, with a 27% approval rating. Concerns over economic policy and immigration enforcement are evident, contributing to this dissatisfaction.
Economic Concerns
Economic challenges are a key driver of Trump’s falling approval. Two-thirds of Latino voters believe Trump’s policies have negatively impacted economic conditions. The poll reflects a 21-point advantage for Democrats on economic issues, reversing the four-point edge Trump held over Kamala Harris in 2024.
Furthermore, 67% of Latino voters feel Trump’s immigration measures have gone too far. This compares to just 22% who view these policies as appropriate. Dissatisfaction with both economic and immigration policies is contributing to the shift away from Trump.
Previous Polling Results
In August, CNN analyst Harry Enten noted a decline in Trump’s approval among Hispanic voters. He highlighted polling data illustrating a shift away from Trump’s historic performance among Hispanic men. Enten attributed the decline predominantly to economic concerns.
Civiqs, surveying over 123,000 Americans since January 2025, reports that 59% of Hispanic and Latino men disapprove of Trump. As of a UnidosUS poll, Trump’s approval stands at 34%, with disapproval at 64%, indicating persistent challenges.
Underlying Factors
Economic dissatisfaction underpins the shift. Trump’s previous promises regarding cost of living reductions and healthcare affordability remain unmet. Democrats have a chance to regain support by emphasizing middle-class struggles and financial burdens.
Trump won Latino men in 2024 by addressing specific economic issues. However, concerns over immigration policies, specifically racial profiling by ICE, have affected support. The NBC News/Telemundo poll shows inflation and cost of living are leading issues, alongside criticism of Trump’s immigration enforcement.
Both Parties Responding
Efforts to sway Latino voters will intensify ahead of the 2026 midterms. Latino voters are considered pivotal, especially as their views of Democrats have only marginally improved. With high interest in the upcoming election, both parties view Latino voters as crucial.