Former President Donald Trump’s immigration policies have always been a hot topic in American politics. But according to a recent nationwide poll, public approval of Trump’s immigration approval rating has reached an all-time low during his second term. The results paint a clear picture: American voters are increasingly dissatisfied with how Trump is handling immigration in his return to the White House.
In this article, we’ll break down the numbers, explore the reasons behind the declining support, and examine what this means for Trump’s political future. Using simple language and straightforward analysis, we’ll help you understand the key points from this developing story.
The poll, conducted by Gallup in July 2025, surveyed over 2,000 registered voters across the United States. It found that only 31% of Americans approve of Trump’s immigration policies, while 61% disapprove. This is a significant shift from his first term, where approval ratings on immigration often hovered around 40-45%.
Here’s a breakdown of the key poll findings:
These numbers mark the lowest immigration approval rating for Trump ever recorded, signaling a potential crisis of confidence even among some conservative and independent voters.
Several factors seem to have contributed to the declining support for Trump’s immigration policies in his second term. Let’s take a closer look.
One of the most criticized moves in Trump’s second term has been the aggressive deportation campaigns across several states. Federal agents have been conducting surprise raids in workplaces, schools, and even places of worship, drawing widespread criticism from human rights organizations and immigrant communities.
Many Americans, especially independents and moderates, are uncomfortable with the harsh tactics being used. Even some conservatives believe that the focus should be on border security, not mass deportations of undocumented immigrants with no criminal record.
During Trump’s first term, his administration faced heavy backlash for the family separation policy at the southern border. In 2025, reports emerged that hundreds of families were again being separated as part of a “zero-tolerance” reimplementation.
The news sparked protests and media outrage, reigniting emotional debates that many Americans believed were behind them. The return of this policy has had a major negative impact on Trump’s immigration approval rating.
While Trump continues to promise a “stronger, taller, and longer” border wall, many Americans are frustrated with the lack of visible progress. The wall project has been plagued by lawsuits, funding issues, and local resistance.
Voters are also questioning the effectiveness of the wall in preventing illegal immigration, especially when technology-based solutions and better immigration court reforms are being proposed by other leaders.
Another key reason for the drop in Trump’s immigration approval rating is the impact on the labor market. Industries like agriculture, construction, and hospitality rely heavily on immigrant labor.
Many business owners and economists have voiced concerns that Trump’s policies are causing labor shortages, higher prices, and slower economic growth. As immigration crackdowns tighten, the business community is feeling the pinch.
To get a better sense of public opinion, reporters from various news outlets have spoken with voters across the country.
Maria R., a small business owner in Texas:
“I voted for Trump in 2020 and again in 2024. But this time, his immigration policies are going too far. I can’t find enough workers, and my business is suffering.”
Jamal B., an independent voter in Ohio:
“I agree with having secure borders. But separating families and deporting people who’ve lived here for 10+ years? That’s not who we are.”
Ellen T., a Democrat from California:
“Trump’s approach to immigration is cruel and outdated. It’s time for real reform, not fear tactics.”
These personal stories align closely with the poll data showing a clear shift in public sentiment, especially among independents and moderate conservatives.
During his first term (2017–2021), Trump’s immigration approval rating never dipped below 35%. His administration was known for tough stances on immigration, including the travel ban, border wall funding fights, and ending DACA protections.
But public opinion then was more evenly split, with a solid base of support from conservatives and some moderates. So why the change now?
Experts believe the tone and intensity of Trump’s second-term actions have crossed a line for many voters. Instead of focusing on long-term reform or bipartisan solutions, his administration is doubling down on hardline tactics — and it’s not resonating with the broader public.
Dr. Laura Mendelson, Political Science Professor at NYU:
“Trump’s drop in immigration approval is not just about policy. It’s about optics, values, and tone. His administration appears more aggressive, and that’s turning off many swing voters.”
Raul Vargas, Immigration Policy Analyst:
“Americans want security, but they also value fairness and compassion. The second-term agenda lacks that balance, and voters are reacting.”
Sarah Greene, GOP Strategist:
“The numbers should worry the Trump team. If he can’t hold independents or business owners on immigration, it weakens his 2028 platform.”
A low Trump immigration approval rating doesn’t just affect public perception — it has real consequences for policy-making and elections.
With the midterm elections coming up, many Republican candidates are trying to distance themselves from Trump’s immigration stance. They worry that aligning too closely could cost them votes in swing districts.
There is an emerging division within the GOP between Trump loyalists who support his hardline immigration policies and moderates who want a more compassionate approach.
This split could impact how the party positions itself heading into the next presidential race.
Facing declining support, Trump may be forced to reconsider some of his most controversial policies. Already, there are whispers in Washington about softening certain rules and increasing outreach to immigrant communities.
Recent surveys suggest Americans are looking for balanced immigration reform, not extreme measures. Here’s what voters across party lines generally support:
This shows that a middle-ground approach could help regain public trust — something the Trump administration may need to consider quickly.
The message from the latest poll is loud and clear Trump’s immigration approval rating is at an all-time low, and it’s becoming a major political liability in his second term. While his base may still support a tough stance, the broader American public is increasingly turning away from his current approach.
If Trump hopes to rebound in the polls and hold influence over the Republican party and future elections, a course correction on immigration may be not just wise but necessary.
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