Democrats’ Missteps Move Public Opinion Against Immigration

Ellis Island Immigrants | Photos: NYC Public Library

The White House and much of the Democratic Party establishment support of a chaotic and inadequate border policy since 2021 helped lead to a flood of migrants, which was not firmly addressed until too late in 2024.

Not only did the White House gridlock provide the top issue Donald Trump used for his political recovery and final campaign, but new polls show public opinion, including among Democrats, has moved firmly against immigration. A sad legacy for Joe Biden and the Open Border, human rights advocates who captured a policy for their clients and ignored the political cost.

The latest Gallup poll captures the massive shift in political opinion which started in 2022. In 1920 and 21, opinion was closely divided across increasing, decreasing, or keeping the same level of immigration. “In your view, should immigration be kept at its present level, increased or decreased?” The public is now more than 3 to 1 in favor of decreased immigration above increased. The 55 percent majority that want immigration reduced is the highest since 2001.

The change is impacting all voters, with 88 percent of Republicans for a decrease (up 15% from 2023), independents now 50 percent for a decrease (up 11% since last year) and 28 percent of Democrats (up 10 percent from 2023).

It provides the political leverage for the incoming Trump Administration to seriously advocate a near shutdown of immigration, massive deportation (potentially millions) and 25 percent tariffs.