Economic Woes Drive Down Support for Trump Among Latino Voters

A recent national survey indicates a meaningful decline in President Donald Trump‘s approval rating among Hispanic voters, a demographic that had shown signs of recovery for him in 2024. As Trump approaches his first 100 days back in office, teh poll reveals widespread discontent, primarily fueled by economic anxieties and perceived failures in addressing the rising cost of living.

The survey,conducted by UnidosUS,United Voices,LULAC,and Climate Power in Action,highlights that nearly two-thirds of Latinos believe the country is heading in the wrong direction,with 70% attributing this to the president’s policies. This shift in sentiment underscores the critical importance of economic issues for Hispanic voters, potentially reshaping the political landscape.

Latinos expected immediate responses after Trump campaign promises. Today, more than half feel that its personal economy has deteriorated and almost the same amount believes that will be worse within a year

Janet Murguía, president of UnidosUS

Cost of Living and Inflation: Top Concerns for Hispanic Communities

The rising cost of living and persistent inflation have emerged as the dominant concerns for Latino voters across Florida, California, and Texas. This surpasses even traditional concerns such as employment and immigration security,signaling a significant shift in priorities.

• Florida: 51% cite the cost of living as their primary concern, followed by employment and the economy (40%) and immigration reform (27%).
• California: 53% prioritize the cost of living.
• Texas: 52% share the same concern.

Job stability ranks as the second most pressing issue in all three states, while housing and border security concerns vary by location. This economic anxiety is contributing to a pessimistic outlook on the country’s direction.

Regional Disparities in Presidential Approval

The survey reveals a stark disapproval of Trump’s performance among Hispanic voters in key states:

• Florida and California: Only 38% approve of his performance.
• Texas: Support drops to a mere 33%.

Disapproval rates exceed 59% in all three states, indicating a widespread rejection of the president’s policies and leadership.

Impact of Immigration Policies on Daily Life

The administration’s new immigration policies are also having a tangible impact on Hispanic communities. Fear of deportation is affecting school attendance and workforce participation.

• Florida: 35% of respondents report that children in their community have stopped attending school due to fear of deportations.
• texas: The figure stands at 28%.
• California: 33% report similar concerns.

Furthermore, at least one-third of employers in these states report a loss of workers due to immigration raids, highlighting the economic consequences of these policies.

Support for Immigration Reform and Divided Opinions on Enforcement

While a majority of Latinos in Florida (56%), Texas (56%), and California (55%) support a pathway to citizenship for long-term undocumented residents, opinions are divided on local authorities collaborating with ICE. Support for such collaboration ranges from 19% to 32%,reflecting a complex and nuanced viewpoint on immigration control.

Party Affiliation and Perceptions

Despite differing opinions on specific issues, a majority of Latino voters still view the Democratic Party as more aligned with their interests. This perception is strongest in California (76%),followed by Texas (57%) and Florida (54%). Conversely, between 37% and 42% consider the Republican Party as hostile.