Voters Back Legal Immigration, Deportation of Illegals Amid Trump’s Military Response

In the wake of fiery protests sparked by federal immigration raids in Los Angeles on June 6, a new national survey reveals a complex tapestry of American sentiment on immigration. A robust 70% of voters now see legal immigrants as a boon to the nation, a significant jump from 55% just two years ago. This shift is particularly striking among Republicans, with 61% now viewing legal immigration positively, up from a mere 35% in 2023.

Yet, the same survey uncovers a persistent hardline stance on illegal immigration, with 56% favoring deportation of undocumented individuals, though this number has softened from a high of 67% last year. The partisan divide is stark: 87% of Republicans support deportation, while 67% of Democrats oppose it. Hispanic voters, meanwhile, are split down the middle, with 49% favoring deportation and 48% against.

The raids, targeting Los Angeles and drawing nationwide ire, have put Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under scrutiny. Public approval of ICE’s actions hovers at 46%, but disapproval has climbed to 52%, reflecting growing unease, particularly among Democrats and Independents. President Trump’s response—deploying the National Guard and military—has further polarized opinions. A slim 52% call this move inappropriate, and 52% believe it worsened tensions, compared to 34% who see it as a stabilizing force.

Local cooperation with ICE also divides the public. By a narrow 51% to 45% margin, voters prefer local governments working with federal immigration authorities over granting local leaders full control. Partisanship colors this view, with Republicans and older voters favoring cooperation, while Democrats and younger voters lean toward local autonomy.

Trump’s immigration policies, including a recent executive order barring travel from 12 African and Middle Eastern countries, elicit mixed reactions. Voters are evenly split, with 48% approving and 48% disapproving—a less decisive response than eight years ago when a similar ban drew stronger opposition. Overall, 53% feel Trump’s immigration enforcement has gone too far, while 39% say it makes the U.S. safer, and an equal percentage say it makes the country less safe.

Concerns about illegal immigration (67%), domestic military deployment (66%), and urban protests (63%) rank lower than fears about the nation’s future, inflation, or government spending. Still, these issues highlight a nation grappling with its identity and security in an era of heated immigration debates.