Latest US Survey: Trump's Immigration Overreach and Economic Weakness Erode Public Support

Immigration policy remains the most advantageous issue for US President Donald Trump compared to the economy or the Iran conflict, a new survey reveals. However, the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll shows public approval of his immigration handling has dropped to 39% from 49% at the start of his second term. While Republican support for his aggressive enforcement remains strong, the survey indicates a majority of Americans now believe Trump has overstepped. About half of US adults say he has gone too far in restricting legal immigration, and a similar proportion feel he has exceeded his authority in deporting illegal immigrants. This sentiment is particularly pronounced regarding traffic stops used to apprehend undocumented individuals.

Trump’s popularity has weakened overall since his return to office. The economy represents a significant vulnerability, with only 32% of adults approving of his economic management, down from 40%. Seven in ten Americans describe the national economy as very or fairly poor. Although roughly eight in ten Republicans still approve of his handling of the economy and immigration, this marks a decline from the near-unanimous support he enjoyed at the start of his term. The survey also notes a split on foreign policy, with Republican support for the war with Iran showing slight erosion.

In a notable shift, Republican support for Trump’s handling of healthcare has risen significantly to 71%, up from 59% last year. This comes as the Democratic Party gears up for the midterm elections, planning to centre their campaigns on healthcare cuts, the cost of living, and the war with Iran. Despite the uptick among Republicans, overall public disapproval of Trump’s healthcare management remains high, with only three in ten Americans expressing satisfaction.