Recent findings from a national poll conducted by the University of Massachusetts Amherst reveal varied opinions among Americans regarding immigration policies under President Donald Trump’s leadership. While there is notable approval for Trump’s handling of illegal immigration, many also support a pathway to citizenship for those who have not violated U.S. laws. The survey, conducted between April 4 and 9, engaged 1,000 participants nationwide to gauge sentiments on immigration, the economy, and political climate.
Trump’s dedicated supporters, particularly those aligned with the “Make America Great Again” movement, believe his actions on immigration reflect their expectations. However, as he enters the second term of his presidency, a divide persists regarding his hardline stance. The poll indicates that Americans hold dual perspectives on immigration matters.
Although Trump’s administration perceives its election win as a mandate for stringent immigration measures, the poll results highlight a more nuanced public opinion. About 60 percent of respondents support birthright citizenship, and a similar percentage advocate for a legal path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants. Additionally, there is significant opposition to separating children from undocumented parents. Conversely, there is strong backing—74 percent—for the deportation of undocumented immigrants with criminal records, and a significant portion supports intensified immigration enforcement.
Half of those surveyed rate Trump’s immigration performance positively. However, opposition surfaces regarding birthright citizenship, with many Americans aligning with the constitutional interpretation that grants automatic citizenship to those born in the U.S. Sixty percent agree with this perspective, while 25 percent dissent. Despite this, a substantial minority, primarily Republicans, support ending birthright citizenship for children of unauthorized immigrants or legal residents.
Regarding deportation, there is broad consensus across demographics and political affiliations that undocumented immigrants with criminal records should be removed, a stance even held by a majority of Trump’s political adversaries, including Democrats and liberals. This widespread public support continues to justify the administration’s focus on deporting those with criminal backgrounds.
Nevertheless, Trump’s approach to immigration has sparked controversy, particularly regarding the policy of deporting unauthorized immigrants to foreign prisons, such as CECOT in El Salvador. Opposition to this policy stands at 47 percent, while only 34 percent approve. Concerns are further heightened by reports of legal residents mistakenly sent to such facilities, and the deportation of individuals without criminal records.
Many Americans express trepidation over the potential constitutional implications of deporting legal residents based on their speech or activities, with 51 percent opposing such measures. Even within Trump’s support base, there is no majority backing for this approach. Across demographic and political lines, a clear majority advocates for a path to citizenship for all immigrants, demonstrating widespread support for inclusive immigration policies.