Voters favoring deporting illegal immigrants
The recent federal raids in Los Angeles have sparked a nationwide debate on immigration policy. According to a recent Fox News national survey, a majority of voters believe that legal immigrants contribute positively to the country, while also supporting the deportation of those who are in the U.S. illegally.
The survey found that 70% of voters believe that legal immigrants help the U.S., with only 22% thinking they hurt the country. This marks a significant increase from two years ago when only 55% of respondents believed legal immigrants were beneficial. The shift in opinion is especially noticeable among Republicans, with 61% now expressing support for legal immigrants compared to 35% in 2023.
Despite the positive view of legal immigrants, a majority (56%) of voters still favor deporting individuals who are in the country illegally. This number has decreased slightly from previous polls, indicating a shift in public opinion on deportation. The issue remains divisive along party lines, with 87% of Republicans and 54% of Independents supporting deportation, while two-thirds of Democrats oppose it.
Interestingly, Hispanic voters are split on the issue, with 68% believing that legal immigrants help the country, but only 49% in favor of deporting illegal immigrants.
Following the raids in Los Angeles, which led to protests nationwide, President Trump mobilized the National Guard and U.S. military to assist federal agents in immigration enforcement. This move was met with mixed reactions, with almost half of voters approving of the job Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is doing, while disapproval has increased to 52%.
The survey also delved into the debate on local governments cooperating with ICE in enforcing federal immigration policies. A slight majority of voters (51%) support such cooperation, while 45% believe local leaders should have full control over immigration enforcement in their communities. Views on this issue vary significantly based on gender, age, race, and political affiliation.
In terms of protesting ICE and federal immigration enforcement, voters are evenly split, with 49% finding it appropriate and 49% inappropriate. Similarly, opinions on Trump’s decision to send in the National Guard and U.S. military are divided, with 52% believing it was inappropriate and 47% appropriate.
Overall, the survey highlights the complex and polarizing nature of immigration policy in the current political climate. While there is a growing appreciation for legal immigrants, the issue of deportation and enforcement measures continues to be a point of contention among voters. The survey also sheds light on the differing views on ICE, local government cooperation, and the use of military force in response to immigration protests.
