Shift in Public Opinion on Trump’s Immigration Policies
Recent polling by Reuters/Ipsos reveals a decline in support for President Donald Trump’s immigration policies. The poll indicates 40% of registered voters prefer the Republican approach to immigration, while 38% opt for the Democratic strategy. This reflects a decrease from the 26-point lead Republicans had in January 2025.
The White House maintains that Trump’s administration has delivered significant achievements despite the poll results. A spokesperson highlighted efforts to create jobs, manage inflation, and increase housing affordability.
“No other President in history has accomplished more for the American people than President Trump,” a White House spokesman stated previously.
Although Republican immigration policies gained popularity during Trump’s second term and led to a decrease in border crossings, public opinion has shifted due to high-profile incidents. These include confrontations, increased deaths in custody, and a rise in detainees, including children.
Conducted over four days and made public on August 17, the Reuters/Ipsos poll surveyed 1,166 U.S. adults with a margin of error of 3 percentage points.
Public Reaction and Policy Impact
When Trump returned to office, 48% of Americans approved of his immigration stance. By June 2025, approval dropped to 44%. Protests erupted in Los Angeles after Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations, prompting Trump to deploy the California National Guard. Governor Gavin Newsom opposed this move, arguing it could escalate tensions.
Resistance spread to other cities like New York, Chicago, and Dallas. In early 2026, operations targeting Somali residents in Minnesota resulted in fatalities, leading to further protests and a decline in support to 38%.
The new Ipsos/Reuters poll followed another fatal ICE shooting, adding to the rise in deaths in ICE custody. Thirty deaths were reported in 2025, the highest since 2004, and 18 more by May 2026.
Despite waning support, Trump and allies defend the immigration crackdown as essential for national security. Trump emphasized during a 2026 address that his policies were removing criminal aliens and improving community safety.
Overall Approval and Impact of External Factors
Trump’s overall approval rating hit its lowest point of his second term in the recent survey, with only 33% approval. Discontent is partly linked to the ongoing war in Iran, affecting oil trade and increasing living costs. 80% of Americans surveyed believe the conflict will persist for a long time.
Voters are leaning towards Democrats regarding economic management, with 38% favoring their approach over 35% supporting Republicans.
Upcoming Challenges
With the 2026 midterm elections approaching, the narrowing gap in immigration preferences may signal a challenge for Republicans. If Democrats maintain momentum, the GOP could lose its longstanding advantage in this area.
The coming months will determine if public concern over enforcement methods and detention policies persists or if the administration’s border security record can restore broader support.